PoK Protests Erupt Over Policies, Internet Suspended

Title: PoK Protests Erupt Over Flour and Power Prices, Sparking Internet Shutdown.Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The widespread demonstrations target the Shehbaz Sharif government. An indefinite strike has paralyzed daily life. Authorities have suspended internet services in response.The protests were called by the Awami Action Committee (AAC). This civil society group demands subsidized flour and fair electricity tariffs. They also seek the abolition of legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees.

PoK Protests Halt Daily Life and Communications

Videos from the region show massive crowds waving flags. People are chanting slogans against the government. According to BBC, mobile and internet services are partially shut down.The AAC is an umbrella organization for various civil society groups. It initially called for a complete lockdown on Monday. The group stated this was to send a “loud and clear message” about denied rights.The committee has now escalated its actions. It declared an indefinite strike across the territory. NDTV reported the decision came after the government failed to meet their demands.

Core Demands Fueling the Unrest

The protesters have several key demands. They want heavily subsidized flour and lower power costs. They insist electricity tariffs should be linked to the local Mangla hydropower project.A major point of contention involves legislative seats. The AAC demands the abolition of 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees in Pakistan. These seats were established under the 13th Amendment in 2018.Locals argue these seats undermine representative governance. A core committee member, Shaukat Nawaz Mir, spoke to Dawn News. He stated their campaign is for rights denied for over seven decades.

Government Response and Security Measures

Security forces conducted flag marches on Saturday. Heavy police deployment is reported across major towns. The government says it aims to maintain public order.District Magistrate Mudasser Farooq addressed the situation. He called peace a “shared responsibility.” He stated their mission of public service would continue.Shopkeepers opened briefly on Sunday for essential purchases. This was ahead of the planned Monday lockdown. The region now faces a prolonged period of uncertainty.

Why Lisa Rinna’s Model Daughters Are Now Hollywood’s Top Newcomers

The ongoing PoK protests highlight deep-seated economic and political grievances. The internet blackout aims to curb information flow. Resolution depends on addressing the core issues of flour, power, and political representation.

Info at your fingertips

What triggered the current PoK protests?

The immediate trigger is the high cost of flour and electricity. The Awami Action Committee called for protests after talks with the government failed.

Is the internet still shut down in PoK?

Yes, internet and mobile services remain partially suspended. The BBC confirmed these restrictions are in effect to control the situation.

What are the main demands of the protesters?

Protesters want subsidized flour, fair power tariffs, and abolition of 12 legislative seats. These seats are currently reserved for Kashmiri refugees in Pakistan.

How has the government responded to the strike?

The government has deployed security forces and held flag marches. Officials state they will not allow anyone to disrupt public life.

Why are the legislative seats for refugees controversial?

Local residents believe these seats undermine fair representation. They argue it gives outsiders a disproportionate say in PoK’s governance.