18/05/2026
The situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir has become tense due to ongoing protests led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). JAAC is a public movement made up of traders, transporters, students, lawyers, and local citizens who came together to raise their voice against rising inflation, high electricity bills, expensive flour prices, unemployment, and government policies.
Many people in the region believe that despite producing hydropower, the people of Kashmir are not receiving affordable electricity or basic economic relief.
Over the past year, JAAC has organized strikes, rallies, and protests across different cities of Azad Kashmir. These demonstrations gained massive public support because many citizens are struggling financially and feel ignored by the authorities. At times, the protests became intense, leading to road blockages, shutdowns, clashes with police, and disruptions in daily life. The government held negotiations with JAAC and accepted some demands, but many protesters claim that promises were not fully implemented.
Currently, tensions are rising again as JAAC is preparing for more protests and possible strikes if their demands are not fulfilled. Supporters view JAAC as a strong grassroots movement fighting for the rights of ordinary people, while critics fear that continued unrest could create instability in the region. Overall, the movement has become one of the most important public issues in Azad Kashmir in recent years.
