Democracy in action in Srinagar but PoK calls for 'Azadi'. Here's what it means

Islamabad

Protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) entered the fourth day on Monday (May 13) amid an unsuccessful clampdown by the Pakistani authorities. The protesters, led by the Awami Action Committee (AAC), are protesting against skyrocketing inflation and high electricity bills. 

But the demonstrations have snowballed into a movement of resistance against Pakistani occupation of the legally Indian territories with the 'Azadi' (freedom) chorus taking over Muzaffarabad and Kotli regions. 

Also read | 'Azadi' chorus takes over PoK amid economic crisis; PM Shehbaz Sharif reacts

Meanwhile, inside Kashmir across the Line of Control, a large number of voters came out of their homes to exercise their franchise for the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat during India's raging election summer in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term in power. 

India's Jammu and Kashmir: The Big Picture

Since the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian constitution that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir state, New Delhi has repeatedly gone back to a parliamentary resolution passed in the 1990s, that describes Kashmir's territories under Pakistani and Chinese occupation as illegal. 

Besides, by starving separatists of their Pakistani funds, New Delhi has managed to stave off Pakistan-sponsored insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir with isolated incidents of terrorism coming up to replace the larger state of insurgency. 

But across the Line of Control, Pakistan's dire economic straits have blown up a state of resistance that was previously unfathomable for Islamabad. 

Protesters demonstrating in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir | ANI

Protests in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir: Why they matter?

They matter because the demonstrations have brought daily life to a standstill. Islamabad has deployed rangers and telecommunication services have been suspended to control the dissent. 

Also watch | PoK continues to protest inflation, taxation

The protests point to the Pakistani government's purported show of elitism in its administration of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. They further highlight the region's volatile political climate and people's grievances over Pakistan's inadequate governance. 

What next?

The Pakistani government is now engaging with the protest leaders through intermediaries. But if these talks fail, the PoK may see a continued state of unrest that would further challenge Islamabad's authority over occupied territory. 

(With inputs from agencies)