Protests Erupt in PoK: Thousands Take to Streets in Rawalakot Against Pakistan

Muzaffarabad: Protests have flared up once again in Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PoK), with thousands of people taking to the streets of Rawalakot on Tuesday to voice their anger against the Pakistani administration. Demonstrators rallied against widespread power outages, poor internet connectivity, and the detention of local journalist Sohrab Barkat.

Massive Demonstrations and Police Deployment

The protests saw participants marching through major streets, raising slogans against the Pakistani government. In anticipation, authorities deployed large numbers of police, paramilitary, and military personnel to maintain order. Umar Nazir Kashmiri, a core member of the Jammu & Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, delivered a stern warning to both the Pakistani authorities and the local administration. Protesters issued an ultimatum, demanding that their grievances be addressed by 5:00 PM, or the movement would escalate.

Key Demands of Protesters

The demonstrators are demanding significant improvements in electricity supply, arguing that although PoK generates substantial power, the benefits are diverted to other provinces, leaving local residents deprived. Additionally, they have called for better mobile and internet connectivity, which remains heavily restricted in this sensitive border region. Another major demand is the release of journalist Sohrab Barkat, whose detention has triggered widespread anger.

Escalation Warnings

Protesters have threatened to block two main routes if their demands are not met: one leading to a major grid station and the other along Shahrah-e-Ghazi Millat. They have also urged residents from other parts of PoK to join the demonstrations, signaling potential expansion of the protest movement.

The unfolding situation underscores growing discontent among PoK residents over essential services and civil liberties, highlighting long-standing grievances in the region.