Anti-Government Agitation in PoJK Peaks with Call for Long March
MUZAFFARABAD: The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which has been spearheading anti-government protests across Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir, has announced a “Long March” to Muzaffarabad today, following the expiry of its ultimatum to the Pakistan government.
JAAC said convoys from various districts will converge on the capital on July 15 if its demands remain unaddressed. The committee has also warned that the agitation could move beyond its existing 38-point charter, indicating a shift toward a broader political movement.
The core of JAAC’s demands includes the immediate release of arrested leaders and activists, an end to the ongoing security crackdown, and restoration of communication services. The committee is also seeking implementation of the 38-point charter agreed to earlier, along with improved political representation, governance reforms, and better access to electricity, food supplies and other essential services.
The proposed march represents a significant escalation in the JAAC-led agitation and is expected to bring large-scale mobilisation from Rawalakot, Mirpur, Kotli, Bagh and other districts. Organisers have called for shutdowns, which are likely to disrupt transport and markets across PoJK. Pakistani authorities have reportedly heightened security around Muzaffarabad and are expected to prevent protesters from reaching the capital, increasing the possibility of confrontations.
The situation on the ground remains tense ahead of the march. Eight major protests were held across multiple districts in recent days. Fresh clashes in Sudhnoti and Mathiyal Mera reportedly left nine people dead, including one Pakistan Rangers personnel. With these, the cumulative reported death toll since June 5 has risen to 28, comprising 23 civilians and 5 security personnel, according to local reports.
Normal life has been disrupted with continued sit-ins, closure of markets and institutions, road blockades, and reports of shortages of essential supplies. JAAC has appealed to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to intervene over the alleged crackdown. On social media, public anger against mainstream political leaders is growing, with increasing expressions of support for the protest movement.
The July 15 Long March is likely to intensify political instability across PoJK and further challenge Pakistan’s administrative control. If met with force, it could also draw sustained domestic and international attention. With negotiations yet to yield results and the crackdown continuing, the probability of further clashes between protesters and security forces remains high in the coming days.
