Muzaffarabad, Pakistan – Violent clashes erupted in Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK) recently, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and leaving over 100 others injured. The unrest was sparked by grievances over high prices, with protesters demanding subsidized flour and electricity. The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) organized the protests, advocating for better living conditions for the people of PoJK. One of the key demands was for electricity to be supplied at a reasonable cost given that it is locally generated through the Mangla Dam in the Mirpur district.
The protests in PoJK underscore deep-seated economic challenges facing the region, where rising prices have placed a significant burden on residents. The clashes also highlight the ongoing struggle for basic necessities and access to affordable utilities in the area.
According to reports, the violence in PoJK has reignited calls for government intervention to address the economic hardships faced by the local population. The demand for subsidized essentials like flour and electricity reflects a broader discontent with the current state of affairs in the region and the need for immediate action to improve living conditions.
Local authorities have so far struggled to contain the unrest and find a resolution to the grievances of the protesters. The escalating tensions in PoJK have raised concerns about the stability and security of the region, prompting calls for dialogue and peaceful resolution of the issues at hand.
With four civilian deaths and numerous injuries as a result of the clashes, the situation in PoJK remains tense and uncertain. The JAAC and other advocacy groups continue to push for reforms and government assistance to alleviate the economic strain on the residents of the region. As the protests persist, the need for a lasting solution to the underlying issues in PoJK becomes increasingly urgent.