Protests have erupted in northern India’s Jammu and Kashmir following the detention of over 70 activists by police.

The incident took place at Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad May 10.

Visuals showed during the protest in PoK, chaos ensued as police deployed tear gas against the demonstrators. People were setting fire to vehicles and engaging in activities that fueled further disorder in the area.

The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee’s call for a “shutter-down and wheel-jam” strike in PoJK comes in response to the detention of numerous activists by police forces aiming to thwart a ‘long march’ planned by the committee.

The crackdown follows months of protests against what demonstrators deem unfair taxes imposed on electricity bills. Previous efforts by a ministerial committee to address the issue had promised relief, but activists now decry the lack of implementation of these commitments.

Recent police raids targeting prominent figures associated with the protests, including elected leaders and student activists, have further stoked anger among demonstrators. Clashes erupted in Mirpur’s Dadyal, leading to injuries among protesters, including schoolgirls inadvertently affected by tear gas deployed by law enforcement.

The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) and the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) have issued stern warnings against the use of excessive force, threatening international protests if authorities continue to suppress legitimate demands. As tensions escalate, the presence of security personnel from various units, including the Frontier Corps and Rangers, underscores the gravity of the situation in PoJK.