ISLAMABAD (Oct 4) – After nearly a week of violent unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the federal government and protest leaders signed an agreement on Saturday to end demonstrations that have left at least 10 people dead and hundreds injured.
The deal comes after days of clashes between security forces and members of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), a coalition of students, traders, and civil society groups leading the protests.
Violence erupted after talks broke down on September 29, when the JKJAAC called for a shutdown to press its 38-point charter of demands — including lower electricity tariffs, wheat subsidies, and the abolition of privileges for government officials.
The protests quickly turned violent as police used force to disperse demonstrators, leading to multiple deaths, including three police personnel. Hundreds of civilians and security officers were injured during the confrontation.
Local officials said the government had agreed to address key economic grievances raised by the protesters and to release those detained during the unrest. Details of the final agreement are expected to be made public after both sides formally sign the document in Muzaffarabad.
The situation in PoK had drawn international concern, with India condemning the Pakistani government for its handling of the protests, calling it “a clear case of human rights violations.”
Authorities have now lifted most restrictions in the region, though security remains tight as officials work to restore calm.