PoK: 12 killed, more than 200 injured as clashes erupt between protestors and Pakistani forces, thousands of troops deployed

New Delhi: Violent clashes continue in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). At least 12 people, including three policemen, were killed during a strike called by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) to demand improvements and public amenities in the region. Most of these deaths were caused by the police and army firing. The protests, which began after the Pakistani government failed to meet 38 key demands, have evolved into a widespread movement against military excesses, bringing the region to a standstill.

172 cops, 50 civilians injured

Pakistani daily The Express Tribune reported on Thursday, 02 October 2025, that the strike halted business and other activities in PoK and disrupted communication. Incidents of violence occurred in Dhir Kot and other parts of PoK. Local officials said 172 policemen and 50 civilians were injured in the clashes.

Thousands of troops deployed

Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) central leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir had called for a strike. This has paralysed life in Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Poonch, Neelam, Bhimber, and Palandri areas. Markets remained closed, roads were blocked, and internet services were restricted in Muzaffarabad, except in areas bordering Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The government has deployed thousands of additional troops to quell the unrest.

Police and protesters clash

The newspaper, citing reports, reported that armed men affiliated with the JAAC attacked a protest site in Dhir Kot, killing three policemen and injuring nine others. The JAAC has called for a strike to press for several demands, including an end to privileges enjoyed by the ruling elite, the abolition of the 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees, and the abolition of the quota system.

Government not meeting protesters’ demands

The committee has demanded free and equal education throughout the region, free healthcare, improved judicial functions in the region, and the development of an international airport. According to officials, the government has accepted many of the JAAC’s demands. However, talks between the two sides failed after disagreements were reached on some issues. Following the failure of talks, the JAAC called for protests and a strike, which continued for the third consecutive day on Wednesday, October 1.

Roads connecting PoK to Pakistan blocked

Business activities in the region were disrupted as protesters blocked entry points connecting PoK to Pakistan. Reports from various areas of PoK indicate that fierce clashes broke out between protesters and police forces. Meanwhile, Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) central leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir accused the Pakistan government and army of atrocities against local people.

Pakistani Army accused of suppressing violence

Mir recalled Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir calling Hindus “infidels” before the Pahalgam attack and alleged that while Pakistan blames others for atrocities, its own leaders are committing atrocities in PoK. He also alleged that the voices of ordinary people are being suppressed, and the media is being silenced. Questioning the presence of the Pakistani army, he said, “It is killing the people they claim to represent.”

HIGHLIGHTS

• 12 people have been killed and more than 200 injured in PoK.
• Clashes erupt between protestors and Pakistani forces in PoK.
• A strike was called by the JAAC to demand improvements and public amenities in the region.
• Most of these deaths were caused by the police and army firing.

The protests, which began after the Pakistani government failed to meet 38 key demands, have evolved into a widespread movement against military excesses, bringing the region to a standstill.