At least eight civilians died on Wednesday during violent protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Demonstrations against the Pakistani government have entered their third consecutive day. Specifically, four people died in Dhirkot, Bagh district, while two each were killed in Muzaffarabad and Mirpur. Additionally, two more civilians were killed on Tuesday in Muzaffarabad, bringing the three-day death toll to 10.

PoK Comes to a Standstill

Meanwhile, the Awami Action Committee (AAC) continues to lead the protests. As a result, markets, shops, and businesses have shut down, and public transport remains suspended. This morning, protesters threw stones and toppled large shipping containers from bridges in Muzaffarabad. Consequently, the containers fell into the river. Visuals showed dozens of protesters pushing them off in an act of defiance.

AAC Issues Demands

Furthermore, the AAC has issued 38 demands. These include abolishing 12 assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan. Locals claim these seats undermine representative governance.

AAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir said, “Our campaign is for fundamental rights denied to our people for over 70 years. Either deliver on rights or face the wrath of the people.” He also warned the government that Wednesday’s strike was only “Plan A,” adding that harsher measures, including “Plan D,” are ready if their demands are ignored.

Security Forces Respond

In response, Islamabad launched a heavy crackdown. Armed patrols conducted flag marches in PoK towns. Additionally, thousands of troops were rerouted from Punjab, and another 1,000 personnel arrived from Islamabad. Authorities also restricted internet access across the region.

Background of the Crisis

The current unrest follows a recent tragedy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Last week, 30 civilians died after airstrikes by Pakistan Air Force J-17 jets using Chinese-made LS-6 laser-guided bombs. Consequently, the PoK protests reflect growing frustration among locals demanding their fundamental rights.