Massive protests sweep Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, thousands rally for reforms

Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is witnessing one of its largest protest movements in years as the Awami Action Committee (AAC) launches a region-wide strike demanding long-delayed reforms.

The AAC has called for a "shutter-down and wheel-jam" strike that could continue indefinitely.

In response, Islamabad has cut internet access from midnight and deployed large numbers of security personnel to suppress mobilisation.

The AAC, a civil society coalition, has drawn thousands of supporters by highlighting decades of economic neglect and political exclusion. The group has issued a 38-point charter, which includes scrapping 12 PoK assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan. Locals argue these seats weaken representative governance.

Other demands include subsidised flour, lower electricity tariffs linked to the Mangla hydropower project, and implementation of structural reforms promised by Islamabad but never delivered.

A key AAC leader said the campaign is not against any institution but for the fundamental rights denied for over 70 years.

Authorities have escalated security operations across the region. Over the weekend, convoys of armed personnel staged flag marches in major towns, and thousands of troops were brought in from Punjab. Entry and exit points of key cities were sealed, while surveillance was increased near sensitive locations.

Islamabad also sent 1,000 additional police from the capital to reinforce local forces. Officials defended the measures, stressing the need to maintain order.

Tensions spiked after marathon negotiations between AAC leaders, PoK authorities, and federal ministers ended without resolution. Talks broke down after 13 hours when AAC negotiators refused to compromise on their demand to abolish elite privileges and refugee assembly seats.

In Muzaffarabad, traders allowed shops to remain open on Sunday so residents could buy essential supplies before the strike. Social media videos showed convoys of security forces entering the city, prompting fears of a harsh government crackdown.

Crowds were also seen chanting slogans demanding freedom from Pakistan’s occupation. Despite a heavy security presence, AAC leaders said the demonstrations would remain peaceful but firm in their demands.