New Delhi, August 3: Recent days have witnessed severe violence and arson in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). Local residents have reportedly lost their lives due to actions taken by Pakistani authorities.
The recent unrest in POK has once again highlighted the strained relationship between this region and Islamabad. Protests, arrests, and restrictions have been ongoing for several weeks, culminating in violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
The government has repeatedly disrupted communication networks, used batons against protesters, and deployed military force to suppress dissent. However, it is evident that the anger and conflict stem from multiple grievances rather than a single issue.
At the heart of this movement is the Joint Action Committee (JAC), a coalition of traders, transporters, and civil society groups united in their demands for fair electricity tariffs, food prices, government services, and political representation.
Notably, this movement has not emerged solely from the traditional India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir. Instead, it revolves around questions of governance and access to resources. Islamabad’s increasingly oppressive approach has pushed these grievances into the realm of security, diminishing the possibility for political dialogue.
On the international stage, Pakistan has long positioned itself as a staunch advocate for political rights and self-determination in the region. However, the current situation has laid bare the discontent and anger of the people, creating an uncomfortable scenario for Pakistan.
This area is rapidly becoming intertwined with Islamabad’s infrastructure goals and China’s economic presence through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Thus, the ongoing unrest presents a significant dilemma: infrastructure can enhance the economic and strategic value of a region without ensuring that the local population has a meaningful role in its utilization.
The Jhelum River flowing through this region has made POK essential to Pakistan’s energy plans, while Chinese investment has added another layer of significance. Under CPEC, hydropower projects have integrated this area into a major infrastructure partnership between Islamabad and Beijing.
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