Protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir: Thousands march to Muzaffarabad after talks fail; polls postponed in two regions
Protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) intensified on Monday as thousands of demonstrators began marching towards Muzaffarabad after talks between the Joint People’s Action Committee (JAAC) and authorities broke down, while election officials postponed legislative assembly polls in both regions amid the unrest.The Election Commission postponed polling in Sudhnoti and Rawalakot constituencies to August 10 citing the ongoing sit-in led by the Public Action Committee (PAC). The postponement comes as a weeks-long protest movement continues to disrupt public life and cast uncertainty over the electoral process.
Negotiations break down, protesters take to the streets
The latest escalation comes after talks between JAAC leaders and the government collapsed on Saturday. Protest organizers claim authorities have refused to release detained activists, withdraw criminal cases against protesters or agree to the committee’s core demands.After negotiations failed, JAAC issued an ultimatum, requiring the government to formally notify its acceptance of its demands by 1 p.m. on July 27. It warned that if action was not taken, thousands of supporters would march from Rawalakot to Muzaffarabad – a call that was later followed through.The demonstration marked the latest phase of protests that have entered their 52nd day.
Election clouded by turmoil
The political crisis unfolded during the first phase of voting in 13 constituencies in Mirpur division. However, political parties say the prolonged demonstrations have severely affected campaigning in the region.Campaign rallies, public meetings and door-to-door campaigns were reportedly disrupted by strikes and sit-ins, while candidates said there would be uncertainty about voter participation if the protests continued.Residents told local media that public interest in the elections had dropped sharply, with many arguing that long-standing grievances and basic rights should be addressed before any elections could be held. Some residents said enthusiasm for the polls was “almost non-existent” and that the protest movement was taking precedence over electoral politics.The unrest continues after weeks of tensions in the region. On June 30, JAAC criticized Pakistani authorities after it was reported that an opposition delegation was blocked from entering Pakistan, saying it was yet another example of restrictions on democratic rights and political dissent.The committee also claimed authorities were hampering food supplies and restricting access to the area, which it said reflected the government’s attitude towards the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.Meanwhile, Amnesty International criticized Pakistan’s handling of the situation ahead of regional elections, accusing authorities of using harsh measures to suppress peaceful political dissent and violating basic human rights.
