Fri Oct 03 04:20:00 UTC 2025: **Kashmir Shutdown: Deadly Clashes Erupt as Protesters Issue 38 Demands**
**Islamabad, Pakistan** – A communications blackout and deadly clashes have gripped Pakistan-administered Kashmir, now in its fourth day of a complete shutdown. At least 15 people, including three police officers, have died in violent confrontations between protesters and security forces. The unrest was sparked by a list of 38 demands presented to the government by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), an umbrella organization representing traders and civil society groups.
The federal government has dispatched a negotiating committee to Muzaffarabad, the regional capital, to hold critical talks with the JAAC, led by activist Shaukat Nawaz Mir. The government has imposed a complete communications blackout.
The JAAC demands include free education and healthcare, infrastructure projects, and ending “ruling elite privileges.” A key sticking point is the abolition of 12 reserved legislative assembly seats for refugees who migrated from Indian-administered Kashmir in 1947, a move strongly opposed by the government.
Negotiations concluded Thursday without a resolution, with distrust running deep between both parties. Another round of talks is expected Friday.
First Piper 