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Widespread protests and a region-wide shutdown swept across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as demonstrators demanded economic relief
June 9, 2026: Thousands of people joined protests across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Tuesday as demonstrations intensified in cities including Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Bhimber, Dadyal, Palandri and Sudhnoti. Protesters demanded economic relief, governance reforms and greater political representation, while markets and businesses remained shut in several towns. Tensions escalated after security forces reportedly used tear gas, pellet guns and live fire to disperse demonstrators, leaving several people injured.
The protesters are pressing for the implementation of 38 demands, including lower electricity tariffs and reduced prices for essential commodities such as flour, rice and pulses. They argue that residents of PoK should benefit from cheaper power as major hydroelectric projects, including the Mangla Dam, are located in the region. Another key demand is the removal of 12 refugee-reserved seats in the PoK Legislative Assembly, which protesters say do not adequately represent local residents.
The unrest has also brought renewed scrutiny on Brigadier Faiq Ayub, the ISI Sector Commander in PoK, who critics accuse of overseeing an intensified crackdown since his appointment. Activist groups allege that dozens of civilians have been killed in security-force actions over the past several months. The current movement follows similar protests last year, when demonstrators claimed that government promises made after negotiations were never fully implemented, fueling fresh anger across the region.