Islamabad, Sep 29 — At least two people were killed and 22 others injured on Monday after violent clashes broke out amid ongoing protests in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Demonstrators have been demanding basic rights, while reports allege that gangs supported by the Pakistan Army and ISI-backed Muslim Conference opened fire on protestors.
Videos aired on Pakistani news channels and widely shared on social media showed scenes of chaos. In one clip, a man was seen firing into the air as protesters climbed atop vehicles waving flags and chanting slogans. Another video showed a protester holding used bullet casings, underscoring the intensity of the violence.
The unrest followed a shutter-down and wheel-jam strike called by the Public Action Committee (PAC), which has issued a 38-point charter of demands. These include ending the 12 reserved seats for refugees and withdrawing privileges enjoyed by political elites.
On Monday, commercial hubs, markets, lorry depots, and hotels in Muzaffarabad remained closed, while public transport and school classes were severely disrupted. Communication networks, including internet, mobile, and even landline services, were suspended for a second consecutive day, further isolating residents.
In response to the strike, Pakistani authorities resorted to heavy security measures. Over the weekend, convoys of armed police and paramilitary personnel conducted flag marches across PoK district headquarters. Security checkpoints were set up at city entry and exit points, while sensitive locations were placed under strict surveillance, according to Dawn.
Islamabad police were also directed to arrange additional reinforcements. The police chief confirmed that 1,000 personnel would be sent to the region after orders from the federal government.
The PAC has vowed to continue its agitation, with plans for a rally later in the day, keeping tensions high across the restive region.
