Unrest in Muzaffarabad: Pakistani Rangers Clash with Protesters Demanding Self-Rule
Casualties Reported Amid Escalating Tensions in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir
Violence Erupts in Muzaffarabad as Pakistani Rangers Open Fire on Protesters
Muzaffarabad, October 1: A wave of violence has swept through Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), as Pakistani security forces opened fire on peaceful protesters advocating for the Self-Rule Charter of Demands. The demonstrations, spearheaded by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), have led to multiple casualties and serious injuries over the past three days.
What began as peaceful protests quickly escalated into chaos, with reports indicating over half a dozen fatalities. The unrest has spread across various districts of PoJK, prompting a shutdown of shops, businesses, and transport services, reflecting widespread discontent with the government’s handling of the situation. An indefinite lockdown was imposed following last week’s protests, which garnered massive public support.
The protests are centered around a 38-point charter of demands presented by the JKJAAC, which includes the abolition of reserved legislative seats for Kashmiri refugees and calls for economic relief measures such as reduced electricity tariffs, subsidized wheat flour, and enhanced access to education and healthcare.
In a bid to stifle dissent, internet services have been suspended across the region. Clashes between protesters and police have been reported in several areas, paralyzing daily life in PoJK. Demonstrators have shown remarkable resilience, defying government crackdowns and breaking through blockades to reach Muzaffarabad.
In Dudyal, Mirpur, the Action Committee has declared that the body of a deceased protester will not be buried until the administration concedes to their demands. Security forces have been seen clearing bridges to disrupt the march, but the JKJAAC continues to mobilize residents for large rallies, showcasing unprecedented unity in the struggle for rights.
The protests underscore growing resentment against the government’s inaction on the committee’s demands. Rights activists, political figures, and diaspora leaders have condemned what they describe as systematic oppression by Pakistani authorities in PoJK, pledging continued support for the people’s struggle.
As the situation remains tense, calls are growing for Pakistan to withdraw troops and end the weaponization of PoJK, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and resolution in the region.
