At least two persons were killed and several others injured in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Monday after the country’s security forces opened fire on local protestors. Protests had erupted over long-standing unresolved issues, with demonstrators demanding their rights and an end to discriminatory policies, including the controversial refugee seat privilege.
According to a report by Samaa TV, all markets, shops and business centres were closed across the region as people responded to a call for shutdown from the Joint Action Committee. The strike was led by the Neelum Valley Public Action Committee, headed by Shaukat Nawaz Mir, who had announced a complete halt of commercial activities to push for public demands.
Pictures from various areas in PoK showed large crowds raising slogans against the Pakistani army and the local administration. The protests reflected growing anger among the Kashmiri population. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) unit in PoK also supported the protests and criticised the Anwarul Haq-led Government for its poor governance and repression.
PTI claimed that peaceful protestors were attacked by members of the Muslim Conference, referring to them as thugs acting under State protection. They alleged that at least four people were seriously injured in the firing.
As the protests intensified, internet and mobile phone services were suspended for the second day across PoK. Telephone services were also cut off, isolating residents and raising concerns about the humanitarian impact of the blackout.
The demonstrations spread to other areas including Dadyal, Bhimber, and Kotli.
