Violent Unrest Sparks Protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir
- Residents of Pakistan-administered Kashmir have taken to the streets in large numbers, sparking violent clashes with police.
- The protests are fueled by demands for electricity at hydropower generation cost, subsidized wheat flour, and an end to elite class privileges.
- The region is experiencing a significant uprising, with tensions escalating between locals and authorities.
Protesters in Pakistan-administered Kashmir are upset because they believe paramilitary forces killed three young men and hurt others. They are demanding cheaper flour and electricity. The protesters, led by a group called the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), started marching towards Muzaffarabad on May 11. They wanted to celebrate after the government agreed to their demands, but now they are protesting against the killings. The protesters want electricity prices to be reduced because they think it should be cheaper since it is generated locally through the Mangla Dam in Mirpur district. The government agreed to most demands in February but has not lowered electricity prices. The protesters are unhappy because they were promised their demands would be met within a month, but they have not been. The protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir are due to high electricity bills and flour prices. The Prime Minister called an emergency meeting to address the unrest. The authorities suspended internet services and closed schools in Muzaffarabad as the protesters planned to march there. The region has seen widespread strikes and clashes between police and protesters. The Pakistani military and civilian leadership are facing a challenge in handling the situation. Pakistan considers Kashmir a disputed territory and wants a referendum to decide its status. Around 70 JAAC activists were arrested, leading to clashes in Dadyal. There were violent clashes between police and protesters in Muzaffarabad, with many injuries reported. The JAAC spokesperson denied any involvement in the violence. Leaders are offering different views on the situation, with some urging negotiations and peaceful resolutions. The protests have caused concern and calls for immediate attention to address the people's grievances.