Shabir Ahmad
Pakistan continues to exert iron fisted control over Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), where local residents are increasingly rising against systemic exploitation, economic neglect, political disenfranchisement, the Pakistan Army, and alleged human rights violations.
Massive protests led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) have engulfed PoJK for weeks, with demonstrators demanding basic rights, subsidised essential commodities, fair electricity tariffs, infrastructure development, and the abolition of 12 reserved legislative seats. What began as a movement over bread and butter issues has evolved into a broader outcry against Islamabad’s colonial style administration of the region.
Pakistani authorities have responded with a heavy hand. Security forces have launched a harsh crackdown, resulting in dozens of civilian deaths, hundreds of injuries, and widespread arrests. Reports indicate that more than 600 JAAC activists and supporters have been detained, while key leaders have been booked under sedition charges and targeted through bounties. Internet shutdowns, curfews, and restrictions on movement have further isolated the region.
Incidents in Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, and other areas have reportedly seen police and paramilitary forces open fire on protesters, including during funerals and peaceful sit ins. Women, children, and entire families have joined the demonstrations, raising slogans such as “Pakistan Se Lenge Azaadi” (We will take freedom from Pakistan) and “Pakistani Forces Out.” The participation of schoolchildren and ordinary citizens reflects the depth of resentment against prolonged subjugation.
The JAAC, a coalition of lawyers, traders, transporters, and civil society groups, has presented a comprehensive 38 point charter of demands. Authorities have banned the organisation under anti terror laws, a move widely criticised by human rights organisations as an attempt to criminalise legitimate dissent. Amnesty International and other rights groups have condemned the excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests, and communication blackouts.
Deep Rooted Grievances
Residents of PoJK have long complained of being treated as second class citizens in a region Pakistan describes as “Azad Kashmir.” Their key grievances include:
• Acute shortages of subsidised wheat and flour, along with soaring electricity bills.
• Lack of basic infrastructure, including roads, hospitals, and airports.
• Political marginalisation through reserved legislative seats that favour outsiders.
• Exploitation of local resources without corresponding benefits for the local population.
• Heavy military presence and restrictions on fundamental freedoms.
The timing of the unrest, ahead of scheduled legislative elections, has further exposed the fragility of Pakistan’s control over the region. Protesters accuse Islamabad of ignoring PoJK’s genuine concerns while pursuing its political agenda elsewhere. Many now openly question Pakistan’s narrative on Kashmir while alleging repression in the territory under its own control.
Contrast with Progress in Indian J&K
While PoJK continues to grapple with violence, shortages, and repression, Jammu and Kashmir on the Indian side has witnessed significant progress in development, security, and democratic empowerment since the abrogation of Article 370. Record tourist arrivals, major infrastructure expansion, improved healthcare indicators, and people centric governance present a sharp contrast to the conditions across the Line of Control.
Pakistan’s continued proxy war and its handling of dissent in PoJK have, according to critics, exposed the gap between its claims and the situation on the ground. The people of PoJK are sending a clear message that they seek genuine rights, dignity, and an end to decades of exploitation.
