Muzaffarabad Protests: Food and Medicine Shortage Hits Residents

AJK – (Web Desk) – Muzaffarabad protests food medicine shortage has become a serious crisis for thousands of residents in Azad Kashmir’s capital. Shops remain closed, streets are empty, and people are struggling to find basic necessities as the JAAC-led shutter-down strike continues.

The Joint Awami Action Committee, recently banned under anti-terrorism law, has been leading protests against reserved seats in the Azad Kashmir assembly. These 12 seats are allocated for refugees from Indian-administered Kashmir living in Pakistan. JAAC says these seats allow mainstream Pakistani parties to control the regional government.

A 64-year-old resident, Muhammad Masqeen, said his doctor prescribed medicine but he could not find it anywhere in the city. “Even the big store here is closed. I do not know what to do,” he said.

Fuel is also running out. Khawaja Rayaz, a 35-year-old resident, said petrol is nowhere to be found. He urged the administration to ensure fuel supply so people can move freely during emergencies.

Laborer Sabar Hussain, 60, said he has been struggling for eight days. “We are not able to find anything to eat except vegetables. The children are upset because there is nothing for them,” he said.

At least 20 people have been killed since last week, including four law enforcement personnel. Clashes have been reported across several cities. Amnesty International has criticized the crackdown, calling it violent and sweeping.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif said the protests are aimed at disrupting elections scheduled for July 27 in Azad Kashmir. The Election Commission has confirmed the polls will go ahead as planned.

The AJK government has urged tourists to avoid the region and called on protesters to return to the negotiating table.