PoJK simmers: Protests enter 17th day, over 50,000 assemble in Rawalakot
News Topical, Digital Desk : Protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir enter 17th day More than 50,000 people participated in the rally in Rawalakot, sources said. Demonstrators are protesting inflation and the economic crisis and demanding political rights.
There is no sign of the ongoing protests in Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) abating. On the 17th day of the protest thousands assembled at Eidgah ground in Rawalkot. Organisers said the rally was one of the biggest in the region in recent years, with more than 50,000 people attending. The movement has been led by the Awami Action Committee and is raising voice on issues of inflation, economic crisis, administrative system and political rights. But protests despite security arrangements and administrative restrictions continue, sparking heated debate in Pakistani politics.
More involvement of women and social media influencers
Women and social media users are increasingly participating in the movement. Social media influencer Rani Ma Shazma's video is also in news in which she questions the problems faced by the local people and functioning of the administration.
Demanded political rights.
Sardar Aman Khan, the head of the Action Committee in Rawalakot, reiterated his demand for more political rights for the area. “Decisions on Kashmir should be in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of the people of Kashmir,” he said. He also challenged the region’s electoral system.
Allegations of impacts on supply of essential goods
Essential goods are being stopped from reaching PoJK from Pakistan, protesters claim. Some videos circulating on social media claim to show trucks transporting food and other essential goods halted. The protesters say this is adding to the hardships of the common people.
Allegations of actions against state employees
Organizations associated with the movement claim that action has been taken against several government employees for participating in the protests. Some reports say 128 employees have been put out of service. Retired military personnel also have been told to stay away from the protests. Several people have died in the protests and many have been arrested, according to organizations linked to the movement. But the administration says it is taking the necessary steps to maintain law and order.
The movement goes into its third week.
PoJK has been seeing protests for the third week in a row. The situation is not returning to normal. Many South Asia watchers are closely following developments and assessing their likely implications for regional politics. The protests have also sparked a political debate in Pakistan. The Parliament Tuesday witnessed a new controversy when Defence Minister Khawaja Asif took a dig at the protesters.
