Protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir against price increases turned violent, resulting in three deaths and injuries to 100 others, according to authorities, international media reported.
The unrest, now in its fifth day, began as a response to rising costs of flour and electricity, with thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets since last Friday.
Despite Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offering subsidies amounting to 23 billion rupees on Monday, the protests persisted. The situation escalated over the weekend, leading to the suspension of mobile services, schools, public transportation, and businesses. The detention of protest leaders further exacerbated tensions.
Authorities deployed paramilitary troops to Muzaffarabad, the regional capital, on Monday. Clashes between police and protesters involved physical confrontations and reportedly included the use of rods, bullets, and tear gas.
One of the fatalities was a police officer. The Joint Awami Action Committee, which spearheaded the protests, declared Tuesday a “Black Day” in remembrance of those who lost their lives.
