New Delhi, August 31, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have entered a critical phase, with reports of shortages of essential medicines and growing restrictions on the movement of supplies and treatment of protesters.
According to officials cited in the report, hospitals in the region are facing shortages of basic medicines, with the supply of medical stocks from Pakistan allegedly disrupted amid the continuing agitation. The reported shortages have also affected people who are not participating in the protests.
Officials further alleged that the Pakistan Army, under Field Marshal Asim Munir, is exercising significant influence over the administration’s response to the protests. Local political leaders have reportedly been discouraged from engaging with the protesters, contributing to the lack of progress in talks.
An Intelligence Bureau official cited in the report claimed that an atmosphere of fear has spread across hospitals, schools and government offices. Staff at these institutions have allegedly been warned against extending assistance to people participating in the agitation.
The region is also reportedly facing severe restrictions on movement, with roads blocked and supplies of food and medicines disrupted. Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) leader Sardar Aman Khan has maintained that the protesters will not withdraw under pressure and has appealed to people across age groups to join the agitation.
Khan has also urged Pakistan’s Opposition parties to participate in the protests, arguing that political statements alone would not be sufficient to demonstrate solidarity with the people of PoK.
The JAAC has indicated that its sit-ins will continue for at least another couple of weeks while it considers a change in strategy and a more decisive course of action.
Officials quoted in the report alleged that security forces have used force during previous protest marches and claimed that the restrictions on supplies could further increase public frustration.
Pakistan watchers described the situation as fragile, with the possibility of either protesters eventually withdrawing or the agitation escalating into violence if tensions continue to rise.
India is closely monitoring developments in PoK. Support for the protesters has also been voiced in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, while the JAAC has appealed to people in the region to raise their voices and organise marches in solidarity.
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