On October 28, 2023, a massive wave of protests swept across both small and major cities in Pak occupied Jammu and Kashmir, all carried out under the banner of the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Public Action Committee or Awami Action Committee. The demonstrations, held against Pakistan, aimed to voice the concerns and grievances of the local populace.
The solidarity movement was not confined to the region itself; even the Rawalpindi Kashmiri community residing in Pakistan joined in, staging a demonstration in front of the Pindi Press Club. During these protests, participants followed a long-standing tradition of burning electric bulbs, symbolizing their unity and determination. In certain locations, after determining the ‘winner’ of this symbolic act, the bills were buried in the ground, while in others, they were burnt to make halwa “pudding” over it.
One of the key issues highlighted during the protests is the collective non-payment of electricity bills by a significant portion of Pak occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Reportedly, this non-payment has persisted for the past four months, with residents using this peaceful movement as a platform to address their concerns.
The protests have been characterized by peaceful and orderly conduct, marking a significant expression of the people’s solidarity and desire for positive change. As the movement gains momentum, the Awami Action Committee is expected to make an announcement regarding the next phase, keeping the international community and stakeholders informed about developments in the region.