Protests and violence persist in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) despite an offer for talks by authorities. The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has rejected the offer, citing a lack of trust in Pakistan’s commitments.
According to Indian intelligence officials, Islamabad’s offer for talks is seen as a mere facade to assert control over PoK on its own terms. There are concerns that Pakistan aims to centralize power in Islamabad, sidelining the regional government.
The refusal to honor commitments and the push to implement Article 56 of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Interim Constitution Act of 1974 are seen as moves to consolidate Islamabad’s authority over PoK. If enacted, Article 56 would grant Islamabad the power to dismiss the PoK government and dissolve the Legislative Assembly.
Pakistan’s desire to assert control over PoK has raised fears of diminishing autonomy for the region. The ongoing protests, now widespread beyond Muzaffarabad, have drawn global attention to human rights abuses in PoK. Security agencies are considering harsh measures to quell dissent.
Officials highlight that past protests in PoK have been fueled by grievances over resource mismanagement, with locals feeling deprived of benefits from the region’s wealth. The potential enforcement of Article 56 could further limit PoK’s self-governance, placing administrative control firmly in Islamabad’s hands.
