• Source:JND
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The protests in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir's (PoK) Muzaffarabad turned deadly on Monday as two people lost their lives, while more than 22 people were injured.

One of the deceased has been identified as Sagheer Ahmed from Neelam Valley's Katha Chogali village. He allegedly died in a firing by the Pakistani forces.

In the last 24 hours, large-scale protests have taken place across the PoK with the Awami Action Committee at the helm. On Monday, the region observed a complete shutdown on the call of AAC.

The AAC, a civil society organization, has been demanding reforms in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) for quite some time. Pakistan has suffered political discrimination and economic neglect for decades.

The Awami Action Committee has been active with its demands for the last two years. During the initial days, the protest primarily centred around the shortage of wheat flour and electricity-related issues. But over time, the committee has pushed for various reforms in favour of the people.

38 demands of Awami Action Committee

The committee has put forward 38 demands. The key demands include, abolition of 12 seats in the occupied assembly, which are reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan.

The protestors have argued that the provision undermines representative governance. Apart from it, the Awami Action Committee has also demanded an end to the quota for Kashmiri refugees in government jobs, timber smuggling, clean water, a solution to wheat-related issues, among others.

Protests outside Pakistani High Commission in London

Meanwhile, the protestors also held a demonstration, carrying banners and placards outside the Pakistani High Commission in London. The protestors condemned the communication blackout in PoK as internet services remain suspended.

The internet and mobile phone services remained suspended for the second consecutive day in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The Public Action Committee has warned the Pakistani government that it will soon organise a large rally.

Pak Army deployed

The Pakistan Army has made a deployment, while the police from Punjab have also been sent to quell the protests. For the Monday shutdown and protests, they have sealed several entry and exit points since Saturday.