Muzaffarabad (The Azadi Times) – Azad Kashmir observed a day-long peaceful shutter-down strike today on the call of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), with protests recorded in major and smaller cities alike. Public transport remained off the roads, and businesses were shut down as the region resonated with calls for the repeal of a controversial Presidential Ordinance. The strike deemed a significant step in the ongoing protests, remained peaceful and orderly, showcasing a rare collaboration between the administration and demonstrators.
A Unified Stance for Demands
Protesters gathered across various locations, including Chehla Bandi, Plate, Upper Adda, and other prominent areas in Muzaffarabad. They chanted slogans in favor of their demands without indulging in vandalism or incitement, ensuring their focus remained on their charter of demands. Demonstrations extended to neighboring towns such as Karoli, Thotha, Majhoi, and Garhi Dupatta, where a complete shutter-down was observed.
Despite political opposition to the strike, the call was largely successful. Public transport remained suspended, though private vehicles and ambulances operated. Government offices saw moderate attendance, while educational institutions remained open but faced low turnout due to transportation challenges.
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The Supreme Court’s suspension of the Presidential Ordinance played a pivotal role in maintaining peace. This legal development removed immediate restrictions on gatherings, which could have otherwise resulted in confrontations between the administration and protesters.
Entry Points Briefly Blocked
Protesters had announced plans to block major entry points, including Kohala, Bararkot, and Shaheed Gali, by midnight. However, these blockades lasted no more than half an hour before being cleared. Some groups attempted to burn tires, but these efforts were stopped after concerns about environmental pollution were raised.
The lack of public transport and the closure of hotels posed difficulties for travelers, daily wage workers, and commuters. Despite these challenges, the day ended without any significant disruptions, marking a stark contrast to the violent confrontations of past protests.
Joint Public Action Committee’s Firm Stand
Addressing the gatherings, core committee member Shaukat Nawaz Mir led processions and rallies across the city. Speakers reiterated demands for the immediate repeal of the Presidential Ordinance, the release of political detainees, and the government’s acceptance of the committee’s charter of demands.
“Azad Kashmir’s people will not tolerate oppressive laws that curtail freedom of expression. The nation has awakened, and we will not back down until our demands are met,” declared one of the speakers.
Cooperation Between Protesters and Administration
A notable feature of today’s strike was the absence of police presence at protest sites. Demonstrators also refrained from engaging in vandalism or disrupting law and order, setting an example of mutual understanding and civic responsibility. The Supreme Court’s suspension of the controversial ordinance averted a potential flashpoint, as the ordinance would have necessitated prior approval for public gatherings.
The court ruling also shielded protesters from legal action, allowing them to voice their concerns without fear of reprisal. The day-long protests highlighted the effective strategy adopted by law enforcement agencies and organizers to prevent violence while ensuring a platform for public dissent.
The Road Ahead
The Joint Public Action Committee has issued a 12-hour ultimatum to the government, warning of intensified protests, including a long march to Muzaffarabad, if their demands remain unmet. The memory of the violent clashes from the May 11 protests, which resulted in injuries to civilians and police officers, looms large.
As tensions simmer, today’s peaceful strike serves as a reminder of the power of restraint and dialogue in addressing public grievances. However, the ball is now in the government’s court to address the demands and avert further escalations in the region.
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