'New Bangladesh' in west :::: Demonstrators across Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot directing "anger" at Pakistan Army Chief Munir

 Massive, escalating protests are sweeping across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) following deadly crackdowns by Pakistani military and paramilitary forces. 

Sparked by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) over severe economic hardships and basic rights, the unrest has evolved into open demands for "Azadi" (freedom) and an end to Islamabad's control.

Protesters from different parts of PoK gathered in Rawalakot, raising slogans against Pakistan's military establishment and administration while demanding 'greater political rights' and regional autonomy. 

Demonstrators across towns like Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot are directing their anger at Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, chanting anti-Pakistan slogans. 

The crisis recently intensified when Pakistan Rangers allegedly opened fire on peaceful demonstrators, resulting in casualties and widespread injuries.  

According to a News18 report, addressing a large gathering of protesters, JAAC leader Khawaja Mehran delivered a strong speech in support of the movement and vowed that the campaign would continue despite mounting pressure.

“We will give our lives” for the movement, Mehran told supporters, while directly criticising Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir. In one of the strongest statements made during the protests so far, he declared, “Kashmir is not your property.”   Asim Munir and Pak Army turned a civil protest into one of region's deadliest crises.

A ban on a popular protest movement and a heavy-handed security response have pushed PoK into turmoil. The unrest has left multiple people dead and drawn growing international attention.  

The funeral that became a flashpoint

The situation exploded in Rawalakot after the death of Shahzaib Habib, a protester who was reportedly killed by Pakistan Rangers.

According to JAAC leaders, thousands gathered outside the Combined Military Hospital in Rawalakot to attend his funeral prayers and demand accountability.

What followed remains heavily disputed.  JAAC leaders allege that Pakistan's security forces opened fire and used shelling against mourners and protesters.

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