Capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir sees clashes during strike against police crackdown | Global News

The capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, was engulfed in chaos and unrest as businesses remained closed and normal life was disrupted due to a crippling strike. The strike was called by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) to protest against a police crackdown, which led to a confrontation between security forces and demonstrators.

According to a local media report, the strike saw police resorting to teargas shelling after demonstrators pelted stones, affecting people in homes and mosques as well. Protests were also held in various other parts of PoK, including Samahni, Sehansa, Mirpur, Rawalakot, Khuiratta, Tattapani, and Hattian Bala.

The JKJAAC had called for the strike after several of its leaders and activists were arrested by police in overnight raids. The committee had announced a long march towards Muzaffarabad on May 11 to protest against the “unjust” taxes levied on electricity bills.

In anticipation of the strike, the Chief Secretary of PoK had requested additional troops for security, citing the potential for a law and order situation. Despite the government’s enforcement of Section 144 and holidays in educational institutions, thousands of people took to the streets in all districts of PoK.

The JKJAAC movement demands fair electricity pricing based on the production cost of hydro-power in the state. While an understanding was reached with an official reconciliation committee in December, the committee announced the long march in April due to the government’s alleged failure to fulfill commitments.

The strike resulted in the closure of businesses, banks, and disruption of traffic in Muzaffarabad division, highlighting the widespread impact of the protest on daily life in the region.