New Delhi, July 9: Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) is once again witnessing escalating political unrest, with the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to the Pakistan government. The group has warned of a “grand and final” phase of protests if its 38-point charter of demands is not addressed before the upcoming regional elections scheduled for July 27.

The latest standoff comes after days of protests and reported clashes between demonstrators and security forces, highlighting growing public discontent over political representation, governance and economic issues in the region.

What Triggered the Fresh Protests?

The immediate flashpoint is the JAAC’s demand to abolish 12 legislative assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees settled in Pakistan. The organisation argues that these seats allow Islamabad to exercise disproportionate influence over PoJK’s political system and dilute the representation of residents living in the region.

However, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s Supreme Court ruled in June that the reserved seats are constitutionally protected and cannot be removed without a constitutional amendment, adding another layer to the dispute.

JAAC’s 38-Point Charter

Beyond electoral reforms, JAAC’s demands include:

  • Abolition of the 12 refugee seats.
  • Renegotiation of major hydropower projects.
  • Lower electricity tariffs.
  • Greater subsidies on essential commodities such as wheat flour.
  • Better governance and increased local autonomy.
  • Improved economic opportunities and public services.

Growing Public Anger

Formed in 2023, JAAC has emerged as one of the most influential civil rights movements in PoJK. It first gained prominence during large-scale protests in 2024 over inflation and electricity prices and has since led multiple mass demonstrations across the region.

Recent protests have intensified following the reported detention of JAAC leaders, with the organisation accusing Pakistani authorities of cracking down on peaceful demonstrators. Reports indicate that police firing during earlier protests left at least one person dead, further fuelling tensions.

Elections Amid Political Turmoil

With nominations for the July 27 Assembly elections underway, JAAC has announced plans for a large protest march towards Muzaffarabad if its demands remain unaddressed within the 48-hour deadline. The organisation has warned that the next phase of agitation could become one of the biggest political confrontations witnessed in PoJK in recent years.

Political and Economic Grievances

Analysts say the protests reflect deeper dissatisfaction over governance, political representation and economic hardship. Despite the region’s abundant natural resources and hydropower potential, many residents have complained of rising inflation, unemployment, food insecurity and inadequate public services.

The coming days are expected to be crucial as Islamabad faces mounting pressure to respond to the JAAC’s demands while preparing for elections amid an increasingly volatile political environment.