Pakistan 

Protesters in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir demand fair treatment and economic relief, sparking clashes with authorities amid calls for international support. The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee leads the charge against unjust taxes and rights violations, advocating for the rights of the people.

In a bid to voice their grievances against unjust taxes and alleged rights violations, the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee has announced a strike in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) today. The decision came following the reported detention of around 70 activists by the police, aimed at thwarting a planned 'long march' by the committee to urge the government to honor an agreement reached earlier this year.

The committee, advocating for the rights of the people, has been at the forefront of a movement against what they perceive as unfair taxes imposed on electricity bills. Their demands include aligning electricity tariffs with the actual production costs of hydel power in PoJK. Despite assurances from a ministerial committee to address these concerns, protests have persisted, culminating in today's strike.

Recent events, including police raids on the homes of committee members and the subsequent detention of activists, have escalated tensions. Clashes between protesters and law enforcement in various areas have resulted in injuries and further unrest. The use of teargas and the detention of individuals have only fueled the determination of the protesters.

The committee had previously planned a peaceful march to express their dissatisfaction with the government's failure to fulfill written commitments made in December 2023. The decision to advance the protest date to May 10 reflects the growing frustration with what is perceived as a heavy-handed response from authorities.

Warnings from other political parties against the use of excessive force highlight the gravity of the situation. Calls for international attention and support underscore the urgency of addressing the grievances of the people of PoJK and Pakistan-Occupied Gilgit Baltistan.

At the heart of the protests are demands for economic relief, including fair taxation, control over local resources, and royalties from hydroelectric power projects. Despite significant remittances from the Kashmiri diaspora, the regions continue to face underdevelopment and neglect.

As tensions escalate and voices grow louder, it is imperative for authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue and address the legitimate concerns of the people. Failure to do so risks further unrest and instability in the region.