Muzaffarabad: Fresh unrest has swept across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), where thousands of people staged mass protests following a security crackdown on activists. Demonstrators poured onto the streets in Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Bagh and several other towns, demanding the release of detained leaders, an end to police action, and immediate measures to tackle the region’s deepening food crisis.
The protests were led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which accused the Pakistani administration of attempting to suppress public dissent through raids and arrests ahead of the demonstrations. Several JAAC leaders were reportedly taken into custody before the rallies, triggering widespread anger among local residents.
Protesters Defy Security Clampdown
Despite a heavy deployment of police and paramilitary forces, thousands gathered carrying banners and chanting slogans against the administration. In several locations, demonstrators accused Islamabad of ignoring the economic hardships faced by residents while responding with force to peaceful protests.
Large-scale protests continue in PoK
PoK activists appeal: ‘Reunite with India’
– Rangers open fire on protesters
– 1 dead, 12 injured in PoK protests@AnkitBhat09 shares more details with @prathibhatweets pic.twitter.com/VbGWPtwua7
— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) July 5, 2026
Tensions escalated when security personnel attempted to disperse the crowds. Clashes broke out in parts of Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot, with reports of injuries during the confrontation. Local groups alleged that security forces used force against protesters, further inflaming public sentiment.
Food Crisis at the Heart of the Agitation
The latest wave of protests comes against the backdrop of mounting economic distress in PoJK. Residents have complained of severe shortages of wheat flour and other essential commodities, soaring inflation, rising electricity tariffs, and shrinking employment opportunities.
Protest leaders claimed that disruptions in the supply chain and administrative restrictions have worsened the humanitarian situation, leaving many families struggling to meet basic needs.
The situation in POJK is becoming increasingly tense as protests continue despite crackdowns. pic.twitter.com/B61GnDFVmH
— Nikhil Kumar (@NikhilKumar_95) July 3, 2026
Protesters Appeal to India
In a significant development, several demonstrators appealed to India for humanitarian assistance, alleging that Pakistan had failed to address the worsening food and economic crisis in the region. Protesters claimed that people were facing acute shortages of essential supplies and called for international attention to their plight.
Some participants also raised slogans advocating reunification with India, arguing that the region had suffered decades of political neglect and economic deprivation under Pakistani administration. The renewed calls added a fresh political dimension to what began as an agitation over economic hardships and governance.
JAAC Warns of Bigger Agitation
The JAAC vowed to continue its movement until all detained activists are released and the authorities respond to the protesters’ demands. The organization warned that if the crackdown continues and the economic crisis remains unaddressed, demonstrations would intensify across the region in the coming days.
The committee urged residents to remain united, describing the protests as a people’s movement against inflation, food shortages and political repression.
Tensions Remain High
Security has been tightened across several parts of PoJK as authorities remain on alert over the possibility of further demonstrations. With public anger continuing to grow over rising living costs and alleged suppression of dissent, the latest protests underscore the deepening political and economic challenges confronting the region.
