The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has extended the voluntary shutdown and wheel jam strike, emphasizing the significance of July 23 as a crucial day. Urging full participation in protests, the JAAC demands the fulfillment of their rights and remembers those who lost their lives during the movement. Criticizing the authorities as “killers” of the people advocating for their rights, the group highlights ongoing oppression and human rights violations.
The JAAC encourages residents of Muzaffarabad and Mirpur divisions to join the demonstrations on July 23, announcing plans to address concerns about the democratic process and alleged election fraud. Notably, the group mourns the loss of Jibran Mushtaq Faram Taraar, a resident of Rawalakot, who succumbed to injuries sustained from a gunshot. Despite recent unrest claiming over 30 lives in PoK, the JAAC postponed a planned long march, giving the government a final chance to address their demands.
Following negotiations with Pakistani authorities, the long march towards Muzaffarabad was temporarily halted, with a warning of resumption if concrete actions are not taken. Simultaneously, sit-ins persist across PoK as the group seeks redress. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed concerns over rights violations in PoK, urging investigations into all deaths amid escalating tensions. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights emphasized the importance of due process and fair trials for detained JAAC leaders.
