Islamabad, June 20: Discontent among the public in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) is escalating due to rising inflation, lack of political rights, and governance issues. A recent report indicates that there is growing resentment against Islamabad’s increasing interference in the region, which appears to be evolving into a significant public movement.
According to an online magazine, ‘The Diplomat’, violent clashes between protesters and security forces this month have highlighted the long-standing public anger in the area. The crackdown by Pakistani security forces on protesters demanding governance reforms has resulted in several casualties, creating a political crisis for Islamabad and drawing international criticism.
The report notes that the unrest in POK has become a major domestic challenge for the Pakistani government ahead of the assembly elections scheduled for the end of July, which cannot be concealed through diplomatic efforts or by projecting a peace-promoting image.
On June 5, authorities announced elections would be held on July 27. Concurrently, they imposed a ban on the Joint Action Committee (JAC), an organization of lawyers, traders, transport workers, and civil society activists, accusing it of involvement in terrorism.
The report suggests that the simultaneous announcement of elections and the ban on JAC cannot be seen as mere coincidence. Concerns have been raised that the local administration, under the directives of Islamabad and particularly the military establishment, is attempting to weaken the most influential public movement in the region to prevent potential protests against the elections.
On June 9, JAC called for a ‘wheel-jam strike’ in protest against the ban, the election announcement, and a judicial decision regarding reserved seats.
The report states that the issue of reserved seats is just one reason for the current unrest. Rising inflation over the past two years has also been a significant cause of protests. JAC has consistently leveraged public discontent over the increasing cost of living as a basis for its movement.
High electricity prices have become a particularly sensitive issue for the people. Despite the region’s vast hydropower resources, locals believe they are not receiving fair benefits from these resources.
According to the report, the current crisis in POK highlights the limitations of Islamabad’s governance model and the weakening social contract in the region. Allegations of electoral interference, coupled with sharp increases in fuel and wheat prices, have strengthened the perception among the public that remaining under federal government control has not yielded the expected benefits.
The report also mentions widespread international protests against the actions of the Pakistani administration. Notably, thousands from the Kashmiri diaspora marched in London to demonstrate against the actions of Pakistani security forces.
My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
