The protests over rising energy prices that began in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) at the beginning of August have quickly expanded throughout the whole country. The demonstrations have turned violent in a number of cities and towns. Videos showing mosque loudspeakers in PoK asking people to stop paying their bills have surfaced online, and individuals are being urged to engage in civil disobedience.
The temporary prime minister of Pakistan, Anwaar ul Haq Kakar, has called for an emergency conference to discuss a plan of action within 48 hours due to the growing size of the demonstrations.
Since the International Monetary Fund’s strict terms for accepting a $3 billion financial aid package, Pakistanis have been struggling under crushing inflation. The rise in energy prices has only exacerbated the situation, and now people in Pakistan are taking to the streets to protest.
Pakistan-occupied Kashmiris are upset that despite their region producing 4,000 MW of power, they get no respite from the ongoing unrest. Residents in the land controlled by Pakistan have also been complaining about frequent blackouts.
