Tensions continued to grip Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as the protest against soaring wheat flour prices, inflated electricity bills, and taxes entered its fourth day. The government intensified efforts to ease the situation following fatal clashes between security forces and demonstrators.
The region witnessed confrontations on Saturday between police and activists of a rights movement, resulting in the death of at least one police officer and injuries to over 100 people, predominantly policemen. A complete shutdown has paralyzed life in the territory since Friday.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif plans to convene a high-level meeting to address the ongoing crisis, after negotiations between protesters and the state government reached an impasse.
The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), representing traders in various parts of the region, demands fair electricity pricing based on hydropower generation costs, subsidized wheat flour, and an end to elite privileges.
A procession led by JAAC set out for Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, on Monday as the strike entered its fourth day. The decision to march on Muzaffarabad came after talks between the JAAC core committee and the region's Chief Secretary, Dawood Bareach, failed to yield results.
A protest leader from Rawalakot accused the government of employing evasive tactics. Demonstrators have staged sit-ins, blocking the Kohala–Muzaffarabad Road at multiple points.
Heavy police presence is reported at roundabouts and sensitive locations. Markets, trade centers, and educational institutions remain shuttered, with transportation services suspended.
Rangers were deployed after clashes erupted between police and protesters in Mirpur during Saturday's demonstrations. Prime Minister Sharif condemned the violence, emphasizing zero tolerance for lawlessness.
He urged all parties to pursue peaceful means for resolution and instructed Pakistan Muslim League-N office bearers to engage with action committee leaders.
President Asif Ali Zardari appealed for restraint and dialogue among stakeholders to resolve issues responsibly. He assured addressing people's demands within the legal framework and pledged to discuss grievances with Prime Minister Sharif.
Expressing regret over the situation, President Zardari offered condolences for the deceased police officer and wished speedy recovery for the injured.
On Saturday, protesters vandalized vehicles, including a magistrate's car, on the Poonch-Kotli road. Markets, offices, and schools remained closed, prompting a police crackdown and multiple arrests in Muzaffarabad.
Earlier, the government suspended mobile and internet services in various parts of the region.
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