Background

⁤ ‍ Protests have gripped Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) since late September 2023, resulting in a violent crackdown and a complete communications blackout.As of October 2, 2025, reports indicate at ‍least nine people have died – six ⁣protesters and three police officers⁣ – with hundreds more injured.

‍ Government officials report approximately 172 police​ personnel and‍ 50 protesters sustained injuries ⁣ during‍ the demonstrations.However, protest organizers claim over 100⁣ protesters have been injured,‍ alleging the ‌use of‌ lethal force by police.
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‌The‍ protests are spearheaded by the Jammu Kashmir Joint ​Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), a ⁣coalition​ advocating for civil liberties and ⁣political rights‌ in the⁢ region. ​ Their demands include an end to special privileges for government ⁣officials,the restoration of ‌student unions,and⁢ improved access to free and quality healthcare ⁣and ⁢education.

⁤ ​ ‌Prior⁣ to calling for a region-wide strike on September 29, 2023, the JKJAAC engaged in talks with the government.‌ In anticipation of the strike, the government imposed a complete⁣ shutdown of mobile, landline, and internet services across AJK beginning September 28, 2023. This communications blackout has severely hampered independent reporting and verification of events on the ground.

Recent Developments

‌ ​ ⁣ Responding to reports of the escalating violence, ​the Pakistani government offered talks⁢ with the JKJAAC on October 1, 2023, according to Dawn. Babu Ram Pant, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director, expressed deep concern over the deaths ​and⁣ injuries, calling for an independent examination‍ into the use of force by security ⁣forces.
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⁢ The communications blackout continues to be a ‍major point of contention, with human rights⁤ organizations arguing‍ it violates fundamental freedoms and hinders access to details. ‍ The government maintains the shutdown is ⁣necessary to maintain law ⁢and‌ order and prevent​ the spread of misinformation.

JKJAAC Demands: A Detailed Look

​ The JKJAAC’s demands represent a broad range of grievances felt by residents of AJK. Hear’s a breakdown of their key requests:

• End to Special Privileges: ⁣ The JKJAAC seeks to abolish perceived unfair advantages enjoyed by government officials, ‌including preferential access to resources and services.
• Restoration of Student ‍Unions: ​Student unions were banned in AJK⁣ several years ago, and the JKJAAC advocates for their reinstatement to allow for greater student participation in​ political and social​ life.
• Improved ⁤healthcare and ​Education: The committee‌ demands increased investment ⁤in public healthcare and⁢ education, ensuring access to free and quality services for all residents.
• Civil Liberties and Political Rights: ‌ A broader call for greater freedom of expression, assembly,‍ and political ⁢participation.