Muzaffarabad: A region-wide shutdown entered its second consecutive day across Pakistanadministered Kashmir on Wednesday as protests over the controversial issue of 12 reserved seats
for Kashmiri refugees continued to disrupt daily life, transportation, business activity, and public
services across several districts.
The strike, called by the banned Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), has affected major districts including Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Mirpur, Kotli, Bagh, Bhimber, and
other surrounding areas. Markets remained largely closed, public transport services were suspended in many locations, banks were shut, and fuel stations ceased operations, creating significant difficulties for residents.
Security measures have been tightened throughout the region amid concerns that tensions could escalate further. According to a journalist based in Muzaffarabad, helicopters were seen
conducting aerial surveillance from the early hours of the morning as authorities monitored the situation closely. Security personnel have been deployed at key intersections, GOVT. buildings,
and other sensitive locations.
Reports from Rawalakot indicated a particularly tense atmosphere. Residents said announcements from several mosques urged people to remain indoors and advised outsiders against traveling to the city. Some of the announcements reportedly claimed that a curfew had
been imposed. However, local authorities denied issuing any official curfew notification and maintained that movement restrictions were precautionary security measures rather than a formal
curfew.
A local journalist in Rawalakot said mosque loudspeakers continued broadcasting warnings throughout the day, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel as protesters attempted to enter different parts of the city. A resident of the city confirmed hearing repeated announcements
advising people to stay indoors, describing the situation as uncertain and stressful for many families.
The impact of the shutdown has varied across districts, with residents reporting different levels of
disruption. In Dudyal, conditions appeared somewhat improved compared to the previous day. A local resident said people were gradually able to move around and visit nearby markets, although uncertainty continued to affect normal routines.
“People are slowly returning to essential activities, and some local shops are operating,” the
resident said. “The atmosphere remains tense, but the situation today is relatively better than
yesterday.”
In Mirpur, residents reported an extensive security presence across the city. While movement remained restricted, people were still able to leave their homes for essential errands and travel within certain areas. Major commercial centers remained closed, but some small businesses and
neighborhood shops continued operating, allowing residents to purchase basic necessities.
“People can occasionally leave their homes, travel by car within certain areas, or visit nearby
stores,” a resident said. “However, the security presence is extremely heavy, and movement continues to be closely monitored.”
In contrast, residents in Bhimber described a far more difficult situation. One resident said many
people were effectively confined to their homes due to the prevailing conditions. Limited transportation, fuel shortages, and communication restrictions have added to public frustration.
“We are facing serious difficulties,” the resident said. “Movement is restricted, fuel is unavailable
in many places, and the internet shutdown has made everyday tasks increasingly challenging. Daily life has been severely disrupted.”
Communication restrictions have emerged as one of the most significant concerns for residents. Many people who depend on internet connectivity for work, education, business activities, and
communication with family members have reported considerable difficulties. The disruptions have affected students attending online classes, small businesses relying on digital transactions, and professionals working remotely.Although government offices officially remained open, attendance was reported to be minimal as
transportation disruptions and security concerns limited movement across the region. Several residents said many employees were unable or unwilling to travel due to the uncertain situation.
The ongoing unrest stems from a dispute regarding the future of 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri
refugees within the legislative framework of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The issue has generated widespread political debate and mobilized protesters across the territory. Critics argue that proposed changes to the representation system could undermine the rights and political representation of refugee communities, while supporters maintain that the matter requires legal and constitutional resolution.With no immediate breakthrough in sight and both sides maintaining their positions.
