Clashes Erupt in Azad Jammu and Kashmir Amidst Protests and Shutter-Down Strike

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) experienced a widespread shutter-down strike and demonstrations on Sunday, despite it being a weekend. The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a proscribed group, called for the protests, which led to clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement in several areas, notably in Mirpur district.

Reports from sources and residents indicate that approximately a dozen individuals, including police officers, sustained injuries during clashes in Dadyal, a town in Mirpur district. While some casualties were reported, these could not be independently verified. The internet suspension in AJK has now entered its 30th consecutive day, further complicating communication and access to information.

In Dadyal, initial clashes erupted in Amb village, with witnesses reporting at least three injured. A subsequent clash in the evening resulted in a critically injured protester being taken to the Divisional Headquarters Hospital in Mirpur. Hospital officials confirmed receiving four injured individuals, two of whom were in critical condition. Attempts to reach local officials, including the Mirpur Divisional Commissioner, Deputy Inspector General, and Senior Superintendent of Police, for comment were unsuccessful.

Elsewhere, protests in Mirpur district, including a demonstration by women in Khaliqabad, dispersed peacefully. Similar non-violent protests occurred in Islamgarh and Chakswari. In Bhimber's Samahni valley, demonstrations took place without police intervention, though protesters reportedly misbehaved with an election candidate. In Choki, journalists alleged assault and damage to a mobile phone by demonstrators. Peaceful protests involving women and children were also held in Moyel village of Barnala subdivision.

In Muzaffarabad, the capital, most markets remained shut, and public transport was off the roads, leading to deserted thoroughfares and limited private vehicle movement due to a fuel shortage. Law enforcement conducted flag marches, but clashes occurred at Airport Chowk, where police used tear gas to disperse protesters. Approximately a dozen motorcycles and some furniture were seen in a ravine along the roadside following the clashes, with footage also showing damaged vehicles.