Pakistan Economy: Protests against high taxes, inflation, and power outages became violent when Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, saw police repress protestors. In Dadyal, Mirpur, and other parts of POK, such as Samahni, Sehansa, Rawalakot, Khuiratta, Tattapani, and Hattian Bala, clashes occurred between demonstrators and law enforcement.
Initiates Shutter-Down and Wheel-Jam Protest in Muzaffarabad
The Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) called for a shutter-down and wheel-jam strike in Muzaffarabad. During the strike, police used tear gas shelling and airborne gunfire.
The protest was organized by the Awami Action Committee, which demanded subsidies for wheat flour and tax-free electricity from the Mangla Dam. Police raids during the night that resulted in the arrest of multiple leaders and activists served as the impetus for the strike.
Committee Announces Lengthy Protest Route to Muzaffarabad
The committee had earlier declared that on May 11, there would be a lengthy march towards Muzaffarabad. Videos of the protests went viral on social media, showing demonstrators chasing away security personnel and beating them with sticks.By deploying more Pakistan Rangers and Frontier Corps troops and by arresting the activists, the administration attempted to put an end to the planned protests.
Pakistanis Grapple with Crippling Inflation
Pakistanis have been suffering from crippling inflation, which has been made worse by the strict guidelines the International Monetary Fund imposed in order to approve a $3 billion financial assistance package. People in Pakistan have been forced to take to the streets as a result of the problems caused by the increase in electricity prices.
