Call for big protest in PoK today, banned organization appeals to people to take to the streets

Lahore/Muzaffarabad. Preparations are being made for a massive protest in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK) on Sunday. Banned organization Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has appealed to the people to take to the streets in large numbers. The organization says that the purpose of the demonstration is to raise the issues related to the release of arrested leaders and workers and the local people.

In a message issued by JAAC leader Omar Nazir Kashmiri, he called upon people to join the protest peacefully. He said that the organization is protesting against the arrest of its leaders and workers and wants to raise issues related to civil rights.

Protests increased after the arrest of Shaukat Nawaz Mir

According to local media reports, JAAC’s key spokesperson and business leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir was recently detained. The organization alleges that many other workers have also been arrested along with them. However, no detailed official statement has come out from the Pakistani authorities on this matter.

JAAC claims that after the action against the leadership, resentment has increased among the people in many areas including Muzaffarabad and a widespread protest has been called for.

Dissatisfaction continues regarding economic and civil issues

There have been protests in PoK for the last several months over inflation, rising prices of flour, electricity rates and other economic problems. Along with this, some local groups are also raising issues related to the actions of security agencies and human rights.

The Pakistan government had earlier banned JAAC under the anti-terrorism law. At the same time, international human rights organization Amnesty International has expressed concern over the action taken against peaceful protesters and demanded the adoption of a fair process.

Strict security arrangements

In view of the possible demonstration, security arrangements have been increased in Muzaffarabad and surrounding areas. Additional police forces have been deployed at several places and surveillance has been increased on major routes.

On the other hand, the organizers of the protest say that they will register their protest peacefully as per the scheduled programme. At present, the local administration and security agencies are keeping an eye on the entire incident.