Massive protests erupt in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir against Shehbaz Sharif govt demanding structural reforms

Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is witnessing one of its largest protests in recent history, as the Awami Action Committee (AAC) launched sweeping demonstrations across the region on Sep 29.

The call for a "shutter-down and wheel-jam" strike potentially indefinite has triggered heightened tensions, with Islamabad deploying security forces en masse.

The AAC, a civil society alliance that has gained traction in recent months, has rallied thousands under its banner, citing decades of political marginalisation and economic neglect.

The group's 38-point charter demands structural reforms, including the abolition of 12 legislative seats in the PoK assembly reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan, which locals argue undermines representative governance.

Other priorities include subsidised flour, fairer power tariffs tied to the Mangla hydropower project, and implementation of long-delayed reforms promised by Islamabad.

"Our campaign is not against any institution but for the fundamental rights denied to our people for over 70 years," said Shaukat Nawaz Mir, a core AAC leader, addressing crowds in Muzaffarabad. "Enough is enough. Either deliver on rights or face the wrath of the people," he added.

Authorities have responded with a show of strength. In recent days, heavily armed convoys staged flag marches through major PoK towns, while thousands of troops were moved in from Punjab. Two days before the protests police sealed entry and exit points of key cities, with surveillance stepped up around sensitive installations.

Islamabad has also dispatched an additional 1,000 police personnel from the capital to reinforce local security forces. Officials insist the crackdown is necessary to maintain order.

"Peace is the collective responsibility of citizens and the administration," The Dawn quoted District Magistrate Mudasser Farooq, warning against any disruption of public life.

The heavy deployment follows a dramatic breakdown of marathon talks between AAC negotiators, the PoK administration, and federal ministers. The AAC has vowed to continue its protests until their demands are met.

The situation remains tense, with ongoing demonstrations and a significant security presence across PoK.