Muzaffarabad, Pakistan administered Kashmir Protests have entered their fourth day with at least nine people killed in violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces. The dead include three police officers. Dozens more have been injured as the standoff continues.
The protests were called by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee which launched a lockdown on September 29. The group presented 38 demands to the government including abolition of elite privileges reduction in electricity tariffs and wheat subsidies.
Markets remain shut and communications blackout has cut off mobile and internet services since September 28. Public life is paralysed for nearly four million residents. The federal government has dispatched a negotiating committee to Muzaffarabad to hold talks. Officials admit most demands have been accepted but disagreement remains over reserved refugee seats and privileges for ruling elites.
Pakistan administered Kashmir Protests erupted last year over flour prices and electricity bills. Although subsidies were granted the movement has expanded to include political and constitutional reforms.
The government has deployed paramilitary forces in addition to local police. Protest leaders reject this move and insist cases against activists must be withdrawn. Talks between the government and protesters have so far failed. Authorities say internet and mobile access will be restored once negotiations progress. Both sides remain locked in a deadlock as anger grows on the streets.
