Multiple civilian deaths, clashes reported as unrest escalates in PoJK

October 1, 2025

Muzaffarabad: The situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) turned volatile on Tuesday as reports emerged of multiple civilian deaths and widespread clashes between protesters and security forces, according to voices from PoJK and media posts from the region.

Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), has been witnessing widespread protests led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC).

The protests, led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), have resulted in over half a dozen casualties and several serious injuries in the past three days, according to the sources.

The demonstrations, which drew massive public support, centred around a 38-point charter of demands put forward by the JKJAAC.

The unrest is a response to the government’s failure to address the committee’s 38 demands, including the elimination of reserved seats in PoJK; 12 legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees settled in Pakistan were abolished.

The protesters are also demanding economic relief, including slashing electricity tariffs, providing subsidised wheat flour, and ending perks for government officials. Additionally, they are demanding free education and health facilities for the people of PoJK.

As the crisis unfolded, voices from PoJK took to X to share the situation on the ground.

Nadeem, posting on X, wrote, “Muzaffarabad: Three young men martyred as a result of firing by forces.”

Zubia Mughal also shared updates on X, reporting, “Breaking News: Another young man has been martyred in Muzaffarabad. Dhirkot at the location of Chamyati, people face direct fire and shelling. The situation in Dadyal is also extremely tense. Shelling intensifies on protesters.”

Adding to the political dimension, Ehtesabb TV, in a post, noted the response of the Joint Awami Action Committee, stating, “The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee has welcomed the government’s negotiations, but has imposed the following conditions for sitting at the negotiation table beforehand.”

Citing Umar Nazir Kashmiri, Central Leader of the Public Action Committee, the channel posted on X, “Last night, two individuals entered our area after the electricity was cut off. When the public caught them, they claimed to be labourers. Later, when the public interrogated them, it was revealed that they are our elder brothers (Int personnel). We have recorded their entire WhatsApp chat on video, and they are currently locked in a shop. We will release them later. I would like to request that all institutional heads confirm that we have no conflict with you or anyone else. We are demanding our rights through our assembly. We are not against anyone, but we will no longer compromise on our fundamental rights.”

The Joint Awami Action Committee also released a statement through X, saying, “False propaganda is being spread regarding the lockdown – the general public should not pay attention to rumours – the lockdown will continue until the demands are approved – Sardar Umar Nazir Kashmiri.”