Violent clashes continue in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) with nine more people died today, local media reported citing officials.  At least 21 people have been killed including three police personnels in the past three days of violent protests. The regions of Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Poonch, Neelum, Bhimber and Palandri have been brought to a standstill after the strike call given by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) central leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir for reforms and public facilities in the region. According to the officials, the government has accepted several demands raised by JAAC. However, the talks between two sides collapsed and the JAAC called for protests and a strike, which continued for fourth consecutive day today.

Markets remained shut, roads were blocked and internet services were restricted in Muzaffarabad, excluding the areas which share border with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Entry points connecting PoJK with Pakistan having been closed by the protesters. The local authorities said 172 police personnel and 50 civilians were injured in the clashes. The JAAC has raised several demands, including an end to the privileges enjoyed by the ruling elite, the abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees, the removal of the quota system, free and uniform education across the territory, free healthcare facilities, reforms in the judicial work of the region and the development of an international airport. Meanwhile, Shaukat Nawaz Mir has accused Pakistan’s government and army of oppressing locals. Comparing them to a witch bent on killing people.