Pakistan is celebrating its Independence Day, but a growing protest movement in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, or PoK, is drawing attention on the same day. Protesters have intensified their campaign against the Pakistani government and authorities, with the movement entering its 67th day. Demonstrators have announced a civil disobedience campaign and called for a boycott of electricity, water, gas and income tax payments. Protest leaders have also urged people not to submit income tax returns, while schools have been asked not to hoist the Pakistani flag during Independence Day observances. Large crowds gathered in Rawalakot, where protesters raised slogans demanding political and economic rights. Women were prominently visible at the demonstrations, leading marches and raising slogans calling for change. The Joint Awami Action Committee has emerged as a key platform behind the campaign. Protesters have raised concerns over basic facilities, taxation, electricity costs and healthcare in the region. They have also compared conditions in PoK with Jammu and Kashmir while demanding better public services and greater accountability. Demonstrators have accused Pakistani security forces and police of using force against peaceful protesters and have alleged incidents of damage and looting at shops and homes. Protest leaders are also seeking international attention over alleged human rights violations and have called for intervention under United Nations resolutions. The large gathering at Rawalakot’s Eidgah ground has become a major symbol of the continuing agitation. Protesters are directly challenging Pakistan’s political leadership and military establishment as the civil disobedience campaign gathers momentum.
