Tensions have surged in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) as Kashmiris take to the streets in unprecedented protests against soaring electricity tariffs, taxation issues, and rampant inflation. The demonstrations, marked by violence, have ignited clashes between protesters and security forces. Thousands of Kashmiris initiated protests two days prior, embarking on a march towards Muzzaffarabad via Rawalkot. However, their advance was met with resistance from police and army personnel, who attempted to thwart the march using tear gas and baton charges. The confrontations intensified as protesters retaliated, setting ablaze several security vehicles.Confrontations with policeReports indicate that nearly 20 police and security personnel sustained injuries amidst the clashes. Videos and images circulating on social media platforms depict protesters engaging in altercations with security forces, reflecting the volatile situation in PoK.Heres the video:Civil War, like situation in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoJK! inflation, food, fuelKashmiri civilians beaten, firing by Pak security forces, beating & throwing policemen. Horrific visuals of clashes from PoJK as local Kashmiris rise against decades of oppression by Pakistan pic.twitter.com/idwKr5CTf8— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) May 12, 2024Security analyst Sushant Sareen has condemned the escalating unrest, criticizing the governance under Pakistans control. He underscores the widespread discontent prevailing among various ethnic groups, including the Baloch, Pashtuns, Punjabis, and now, the people of PoJK and PoGB.Pakistani journalist Ahmad Farhad shared footage of protesters chanting Pakistan se lain ge Azadi in front of the Pakistan Army. Laila Khan, echoing similar sentiments, urged Pakistan to address security concerns in North Waziristan instead of suppressing innocent civilians in Kashmir.Regional tensions In a separate incident amplifying regional tensions, unidentified militants targeted a private girls school in North Waziristan, further exacerbating the volatile situation.Pakistan tried to suppress the protests by deploying troops in Punjab Province. The protests, slated for May 11, aim to address the economic, social, and political challenges faced by Kashmiris under Pakistans governance.Calls for restraintThe United Kashmir Peoples National Party (UKPNP) and the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) have issued warnings against the use of excessive force by the Pakistani government, urging restraint in handling the protests. However, the mobilization of troops indicates a looming escalation in tensions, as Kashmiris persist in voicing their demands for autonomy and justice.
