Agreement Reached to End Protests in PoK

After days of violent protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the federal government and protest leaders signed an agreement on October 4, 2025, to restore peace. The unrest, which began on September 29, resulted in at least 10 deaths and hundreds of injuries, prompting urgent negotiations between the government and the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC).

The protests erupted following a breakdown in talks over a 38-point charter of demands presented by the JKJAAC. The demands included issues related to rising electricity bills, shortages of subsidised flour, and calls for political reforms. The situation escalated into violent clashes, leading to a communications blackout and a shutdown of public transport across the region.

In response to the unrest, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sent a high-level delegation to Muzaffarabad to negotiate a resolution. After two days of discussions, an agreement was reached, which was announced by Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry. He stated, "Negotiating delegation has signed the final agreement with the Action Committee.... The protesters are returning to their homes. All roads have been reopened. This is a victory for peace."

The signed agreement includes 25 key points, addressing compensation for victims of the violence, the establishment of additional educational boards, and improvements to healthcare facilities. The federal government has committed PKR 10 billion to enhance the electricity system in PoK and will provide MRI and CT scan machines in each district.

Administrative reforms were also part of the deal, including reducing the size of the PoK cabinet and merging certain departments to streamline governance. Infrastructure projects, such as the construction of two tunnels in Neelum Valley and an international airport in Mirpur, were also agreed upon. Additionally, tax reforms will align property transfer taxes with those in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

A monitoring and implementation committee will be established to ensure compliance with the agreement. The protests have highlighted significant political and governance challenges in PoK, and the effectiveness of the agreement's implementation will be crucial for long-term stability in the region.