• Source:JND
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Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has once again become the epicentre of anger, unrest, and anti-government sentiment. What began as a localised grievance over university fee hikes and alleged errors in the new digital evaluation system has spiralled into a mass youth-driven movement challenging Islamabad’s authority. Much like recent Gen Z uprisings in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, PoK’s protests reflect long-simmering frustrations surrounding unemployment, corruption, and authoritarianism. 

The latest wave erupted at the University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (UAJK) in Muzaffarabad when students denounced steep fee increases and discrepancies in exam results. The controversial introduction of an “e-marking” system at matriculation and intermediate levels led to anomalies, students receiving unusually low marks, delayed results, and even passes in subjects they never took. After months of uncertainty, anger intensified.

To make matters worse, authorities imposed rechecking charges of Rs 1,500 per paper, an unaffordable burden for many families. Although the university denied allegations of a 6 per cent hike and insisted only a routine 10 per cent annual increase applied, protests continued.

Escalating Tensions And Violence

What started peacefully turned volatile when gunshots were fired at demonstrators, injuring one student. Eyewitnesses accused a local man of opening fire while police stood by. Viral videos showed chaos, burning tyres, and chants targeting the Shehbaz Sharif government and Pakistan’s military establishment.

Students also accused authorities of ignoring dilapidated facilities, inadequate transport, and administrative indifference. Teaching was suspended at UAJK’s Chella campus as police presence increased.

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Beyond Tuition Fees: A Crisis Of Governance

Residents have long complained about mismanagement, stalled development projects, and unemployment. In recent months, PoK saw deadly protests over economic issues, power tariffs, and tax burdens led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC). The government was forced to concede demands, an embarrassing climbdown. Now, JKJAAC has joined the student movement, amplifying momentum.

Why Islamabad Is Nervous

Youth-led protests have toppled leaders in Nepal and Bangladesh. Pakistan’s establishment fears the same pattern:

Local grievance - mass uprising

Anti-corruption sentiment - anti-state movement

Crackdowns - nationwide outrage

Anti-army slogans are particularly alarming for Islamabad, as PoK has been under Pakistan’s illegal control since 1947. 

The government swiftly banned student unions and political activity on campuses, a move widely condemned as authoritarian. India criticised the suppression of student rights, calling it proof of PoK’s deteriorating civil liberties. Over 200 arrests have reportedly been made, and accusations of police brutality are mounting.

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