Protest Erupts in PoJK Over Unfair Shop Rent Hike

Local leaders and shopkeepers in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir protested against the authorities for increasing shop rents and sealing them due to non-payment. Led by Shaukat Nawaz Mir, they demanded the shops be reopened and fair rent rates be established as per Supreme Court directives.

Local leaders and tenant shopkeepers in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) staged a protest against the authorities over a steep hike in shop rents and sealing of establishments for non-payment. The protest was organized by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) and headed by Shaukat Nawaz Mir. The protesters demanded Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq open the shops immediately.

The protest saw sellers and shopkeepers congregate at a local chowk to discuss the overnight closure of their shops. Shaukat Nawaz Mir highlighted the ongoing conflict between shopkeepers and the state government, stating, "The Supreme Court of Pakistan directed the rents to be set according to market prices. However, the authorities are arbitrarily setting different rents for different shops, from PKR 18,000 to PKR 26,000. We demand compliance with the Supreme Court's orders."

Mir accused the administration of misusing the law, asserting, "The Supreme Court ordered the collection of taxes as per legal guidelines, but the authorities are charging unjust rates and shutting shops for non-payment. This is an unfair treatment of the public. If anything happens to the sellers, the government will be held accountable."

Residents expressed their frustration, noting the sudden shop closures and a 6% rent hike without prior notice. They emphasized that these shops are essential for their livelihood, selling meat, vegetables, and fruits. One resident pointed out that the PoJK government had previously promised permanent shops in good condition, but this promise remains unfulfilled, leaving their survival uncertain.

(With inputs from agencies.)