POJK: JAAC Call for 15 July Long March
Article by Dr Biplab Rath
Background
The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which has been leading anti-government protests across Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK), has announced a Long March to Muzaffarabad on 15 July 2026. The call follows the expiry of its ultimatum to the Pakistan government over the release of detained leaders, implementation of its charter of demands, and an end to the ongoing security crackdown.
Key Developments
JAAC has declared that convoys from different districts will converge on Muzaffarabad on 15 July if its demands remain unmet.
The organisation has warned that after 14 July, it may escalate the agitation beyond its existing 38-point charter, signalling a broader political movement.
Core demands include:
▪︎ Release of arrested JAAC leaders and activists.
▪︎ Withdrawal of security crackdown and restoration of communication services.
▪︎ Implementation of the previously agreed 38-point charter.
▪︎ Improved political representation and governance reforms.
▪︎ Better access to electricity, food supplies, and essential services.
Assessment
The 15 July Long March represents a significant escalation in the ongoing JAAC-led agitation. It has the potential to intensify political instability across PoJK, further challenge Pakistan’s administrative control, and generate sustained domestic and international attention if met with force.
The proposed march is likely to witness large-scale mobilisation from Rawalakot, Mirpur, Kotli, Bagh and other districts, with a possibility of widespread shutdowns and transport disruptions.
Pakistani authorities have reportedly reinforced security around Muzaffarabad and are expected to prevent protesters from reaching the capital, increasing the likelihood of confrontations.
Given the recent fatalities, arrests, and continued crackdown, there remains a high probability of further clashes between protesters and security forces if negotiations fail.
JAAC Protest: POJK in Turmoil
The security situation in POK remained tense as eight major protests were held across multiple districts ahead of the JKAAC’s July 15 protest march. Fresh clashes in Sudhnoti and Mathiyal Mera reportedly left nine persons dead (including one Pakistan Rangers personnel), taking the cumulative reported death toll from June 5 to 28 (23 civilians and 5 security personnel).
The unrest disrupted normal life, with continued sit-ins, shutdown of markets and institutions, road blockades, and reports of shortages of essential supplies. JKAAC appealed to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to intervene over the alleged crackdown, while social media reflected growing public anger against mainstream political leaders and increasing support for the protest movement.
