Violent Protests Rock Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir: 10 Dead, Over 100 Injured

• By Thetripurapost Desk, Muzaffarabad
• Oct 01, 2025
• 393

Violent anti-government protests continued in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday, leaving eight more people dead and more than 100 injured after security forces opened fire on unarmed demonstrators. The death toll has now climbed to 10 in three days of unrest.

According to media reports, four protesters were killed in Dhirkot (Bagh district), two in Muzaffarabad, and two in Mirpur.

The demonstrations are being spearheaded by the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), which accuses the government of failing to control inflation and denying fundamental rights to locals.

Protesters’ Demands

The JKJAAC has placed 38 demands before the government, with three being central:

1. Abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees from Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.

2. Local benefit from power projects in PoK.

3. Discounts on flour and electricity bills amid soaring inflation.

 

Why target reserved seats?
These 12 assembly seats are reserved for Kashmiri migrants who crossed into PoK during wars in 1947, 1965, and 1971. Locals argue that these seats underrepresent them and primarily benefit a handful of influential families, leaving native issues unaddressed.

Voices from the Ground

JKJAAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir declared:

“Our campaign is for fundamental rights that have been denied to us for 70 years… Either give us our rights or face the anger of the people. Plan A is this strike. Plan D will be very dangerous.”

 

He also demanded compensation and government jobs for families of those killed in the crackdown.

 

Government Response & Media Clampdown

The Pakistani government has:

Banned journalists and tourists from entering PoK.

Restricted local reporters from neutral coverage.

Shut down internet services since midnight to curb mobilization.

Human rights groups are voicing concern, warning of escalating violence that could even fuel independence demands.

 

Background of Unrest

This is not the first time PoK has erupted in anger:

May 2024: Strikes over cheap flour and electricity.

2023: Street protests against high tariffs and removal of wheat subsidies.

2022: Road blockades and slogans for “Azadi” (freedom).

Despite hosting the Mangla Dam, one of Pakistan’s largest power projects, locals complain they do not get affordable electricity, deepening resentment against Islamabad.

With mounting casualties, growing anger, and complete media blackout, observers warn that these protests may mark a turning point in PoK’s political and social landscape.