The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which is spearheading the anti-government protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has called for a long march to Muzaffarabad on Wednesday to press for its demands.

The march, expected to draw large-scale participation from districts including Rawalakot, Mirpur, Kotli and Bagh, is likely to trigger widespread shutdowns and transport disruptions, according to local reports.

The JAAC announced the march after the expiry of its ultimatum to the Pakistan government. The protesters are demanding the release of arrested leaders and activists, an end to what they describe as a "brutal" security crackdown, the restoration of communication services, and improved access to essential services, including electricity and food supplies.

The protests have deepened political instability in the region, posing a fresh challenge to Pakistan's administration in PoK. The JAAC has warned of a broader political movement if its demands for greater political representation and governance reforms remain unaddressed.

A key demand of the protesters is the abolition of the 12 "refugee" seats in the 53-member PoK Legislative Assembly. They allege that Pakistan's mainstream political parties have long used these reserved seats to install loyalists from their local chapters, effectively sidelining regional political parties in PoK.

In response, the Pakistan government has intensified its crackdown, deploying more than 16,000 security personnel across the region. Police have clashed with demonstrators at several locations over the past month, with more than 20 people reportedly killed.

Local media reported that eight major protests were held across multiple districts ahead of Wednesday's march. Fresh clashes in Sudhnoti and Mathiyal Mera reportedly left nine people dead, including a Pakistan Ranger.

The JAAC has warned that it could expand its agitation beyond its existing 38-point charter if its demands are ignored. The charter calls for the abolition of the reserved assembly seats for refugees, lower wheat flour prices, substantial reductions in electricity tariffs, improved public services, and broader political and governance reforms.

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