Massive Uprising Rocks Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Leaving 12 Dead

Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) is engulfed in one of its most significant uprisings in decades, with thousands of protesters clashing with security forces across several districts.

The unrest, now in its fifth day as of October 2, 2025, has claimed at least 12 civilian lives and left over 200 people injured, many critically from gunshot wounds. The violence has spread from Muzaffarabad, the regional capital, to areas including Rawalakot, Neelum Valley, Kotli, and Dadyal, despite a heavy security presence and stringent communication restrictions.

Reports indicate that security forces opened fire, resulting in five deaths in Muzaffarabad, five in Dheerkot, and two in Dadyal. Three police officers have also been killed in the confrontations. Authorities have deployed thousands of additional troops to quell the protests, while imposing a complete blackout on internet, mobile, and landline services. Since the protests erupted on September 29, markets, schools, shops, and transportation services have remained shuttered, bringing daily life to a standstill.

The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) is spearheading the movement, presenting a 38-point list of demands. A key grievance is the call to eliminate 12 legislative assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees settled in Pakistan, which protesters argue dilutes local representation. Additionally, demonstrators are pressing for tax reductions, subsidies on essential goods like flour and electricity, the completion of stalled development projects, and improved access to free healthcare and education.

In a striking departure from the past, PoJK residents are openly voicing dissent against the Pakistani government and military. Protesters have been heard chanting slogans such as “Rulers, beware, we are your reckoning” and “Kashmir belongs to us, we will shape its future.” Social media footage shows thousands marching through Muzaffarabad, dismantling barricades and defying security blockades.

From London, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the creation of a negotiation panel to engage with protest leaders. Urging restraint from security forces, Sharif expressed willingness to address the region’s grievances. However, opposition leaders have criticised the government for its handling of the crisis, pointing to its failure to address the growing humanitarian concerns.

As violence escalates, Nasir Aziz Khan, spokesperson for the United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP), addressed the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, urging the United Nations and international community to intervene. Khan highlighted the risk of a humanitarian crisis in PoJK and accused the Pakistani government of severe human rights violations.

The current unrest follows recent Pakistani military airstrikes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which killed 30 civilians, further stoking public outrage. PoJK protesters have condemned the government for treating its citizens as adversaries, with some activists describing the administration as “monstrous” for “targeting its own people.” Viral videos circulating online amplify these sentiments.

Despite an indefinite lockdown, protest caravans from towns like Rawalakot and Mirpur have breached security barriers to march toward Muzaffarabad. In Dadyal, local leaders have vowed not to bury a slain protester until their demands are met. Clashes continue on major highways and bridges, with tensions showing no signs of abating.