For the first time in recent years, anti-Pakistan demonstrations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir have taken on an unprecedented character, with schoolchildren and women emerging as some of the most visible faces of the movement. What began as a political agitation has now evolved into a larger expression of public anger over governance, economic hardship and military presence in the region.
The protests entered their 14th consecutive day on Monday, with thousands continuing their sit-in at Rawalakot's Eidgah Ground. Organisers claim more than 70,000 people have been participating in the demonstrations, which are rapidly gaining momentum ahead of a self-imposed deadline issued to Islamabad.
Children carrying placards and chanting slogans have become one of the defining images of the movement, reflecting how deeply the unrest has permeated local communities.
Women and children become the face of the movement
Across Rawalakot, Tarar Khel and several other towns, schoolchildren were seen carrying banners demanding freedom, access to education and international attention to their situation.
According to NDTV, placards displayed messages calling for the withdrawal of Pakistani forces, the restoration of internet services and improved living conditions.
Women too have emerged at the forefront of the demonstrations. In Mandhole and neighbouring areas, hundreds marched through the streets, openly criticising Pakistan's administration and military establishment.
Their participation has added a new dimension to the protests, which were initially dominated by political activists and civil society groups.
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Women of #PoJK leading from the front in Rawalakot!
— KashmirFact (@Kashmir_Fact) June 22, 2026
Despite 14 days of sit-ins, hunger, and brutal crackdown, they are still marching with flags, demanding their rights.
Unbowed. Unbroken. Unafraid.
The women of PoK are showing extraordinary courage against Pakistani… pic.twitter.com/6WlCcH1nAc
Awami Action Committee sets June 23 deadline
According to NDTV, the movement is being coordinated by the Awami Action Committee, which has submitted a 38-point charter of demands to Pakistani authorities.
Leaders have warned that if the demands are not accepted by June 23, more than 100,000 protesters could march from Rawalakot to Muzaffarabad.
Senior organiser Sardar Aman Khan addressed supporters at Eidgah Ground, issuing strong warnings to Islamabad.
He said continued military pressure would only strengthen public resistance and argued that people in the region were no longer willing to tolerate what they described as political suppression.
The rhetoric marks a significant escalation in tensions between local protest groups and Pakistani authorities.
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Internet shutdown and shortages deepen public anger
The demonstrations are unfolding amid growing humanitarian concerns.
According to NDTV, internet services across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir have reportedly remained suspended since June 5, severely restricting communication and information flow.
Activists have also alleged that food trucks entering the region have been blocked since June 14, leading to shortages in several localities.
According to protest organisers, clashes between demonstrators and Pakistani security forces have resulted in 58 deaths since the unrest began.
