PoK Protests Erupt Across Azad Kashmir
In Azad Kashmir, protests against the Pakistan government unfolded across multiple towns, led by the Awami Action Committee (AAC). Supporters gathered to voice grievances over governance, economics, and representation in the region. The demonstrations underscored mounting discontent with Islamabad’s policies in Azad Kashmir, drawing participants from various communities who sought greater accountability and policy reform.
The AAC’s Demands and the Street March
The Awami Action Committee, a regional political group active in PoK, organized the march to press for reforms and to highlight concerns about local governance. Organizers emphasized the need for dialogue with authorities to address long-standing issues such as development, healthcare, unemployment, and political participation in Azad Kashmir. Protesters voiced slogans calling for a more responsive administration and an inclusive political process.
Security Response and Casualties
Local authorities confirmed that two people were killed and more than twenty were injured as the protests intensified. Reports indicate that security forces deployed crowd-control measures to disperse demonstrators near government buildings and major routes. Witness accounts described clashes that included tear gas and baton charges in some areas, though officials urged restraint while investigations continue. The exact circumstances surrounding the fatalities and injuries are under review by authorities.
Context: PoK’s Political Landscape
Azad Kashmir operates within a complex political framework, existing as a self-governing region administered by Pakistan while remaining part of the broader Kashmir dispute. The AAC and other regional groups have historically played a significant role in articulating local grievances and advocating for reforms. Protests in PoK often reflect tensions between local aspirations and national policy decisions that affect daily life, governance, and development opportunities in the territory.
What Happens Next
Authorities have pledged thorough investigations into the incidents to determine the causes of the fatalities and injuries. Human rights advocates urged adherence to due process and the protection of peaceful protesters, emphasizing non-violent avenues for political expression. The AAC signaled its intent to continue pressuring for reforms and dialogue, while emphasizing the importance of political space for civil society in Azad Kashmir. Analysts say such demonstrations can influence the political dialogue in PoK and shape Islamabad’s approach to governance in the region.
Looking Ahead
As the situation evolves, experts stress the need for a careful balance between security and the right to protest. For residents of Azad Kashmir, the incident highlights demand for clearer political pathways, accountability, and sustained attention to the region’s social and economic challenges. The coming days are likely to see statements from officials, further mobilization by regional groups, and renewed calls for negotiation and reform in PoK.
