Protesters in Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir demand independence, warn of alternate trade routes

Thousands of demonstrators gathered at Rawalakot’s Eidgah Ground in Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (POK) on June 30, 2026, led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). JAAC leader Sardar Amman Khan declared, “POK is not a part of Pakistan,” and warned that continued food blockades could force residents to seek “other trade routes.”

The protest, which follows a sit‑in near the Line of Control since June 9, targets what participants describe as a prolonged food blockade, high electricity prices, limited employment, and broader political and economic neglect by Islamabad. Protesters presented a 38‑point charter demanding lower electricity tariffs, food subsidies, better governance, job creation and an end to decades‑long discrimination. They also accused Pakistani authorities of restricting internet services and filing anti‑terrorism cases against JAAC leaders after the group was banned earlier in the month. Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s remarks questioning the identity of Rawalakot and Mirpur residents have further inflamed the unrest.