Violent protests engulf Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as police officers refuse to join duty in PoK and Gilgit. Government documents reveal the defiance, forcing authorities to prepare a comprehensive list of officers avoiding deployment. Officials confirmed that law enforcement personnel received posting orders but deliberately avoided reporting to volatile regions.
On Monday, authorities dismissed one officer in PoK for failing to join duty, signaling strict government action.
Rising Tensions Due to Violence
Protests have escalated dramatically, with four police officers and seven civilians killed recently, while hundreds suffered injuries. This marks the third significant unrest in PoK over the past two years, highlighting persistent security threats.
Pay Disparities Fuel Defiance
Officers cite extremely low salaries and allowances compared to other provinces, aggravating discontent and reducing willingness to serve. For instance, a constable in PoK earns only PKR 15,899 monthly versus PKR 73,000 in Punjab, highlighting vast inequity.
Previously, September 2025 protests involved 11,000 officers demanding wage revisions, pointing to long-standing systemic grievances.
Background of PoK Unrest
Pakistan occupied parts of Kashmir in 1947-48 and currently governs approximately 13,300 sq km under a Peoples Party administration. The government plans assembly elections, sparking protests over reserved seats for refugee Kashmiris, which citizens demand be abolished.
Amid rising violence, police reluctance to serve increases government tension and complicates maintaining law and order in the region.
