At least 12 civilians have been killed as Pakistani security forces opened fire on protesters in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK), which is experiencing one of its largest unrest episodes in recent years. The protests began over the government’s failure to meet 38 key demands and have since expanded into broader agitation against military excesses, bringing much of the region to a halt.
The unrest, now in its third day, saw violent clashes in Dadyal, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Neelum Valley, and Kotli. Reports indicate five protesters were killed in Muzaffarabad, five in Dheerkot, and two in Dadyal. Additionally, three police personnel have died, and over 200 people have been injured, many with gunshot wounds.
Led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (AAC), the protests demand the abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees in Pakistan, tax relief, subsidies on flour and electricity, and completion of development projects. Markets and communication services have been shut down since the protests began on September 29.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the formation of a negotiation panel to address the issues while calling for restraint from security forces. Meanwhile, the United Kashmir People’s National Party has appealed to the UN for urgent international intervention amid concerns of a growing humanitarian crisis.
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