Protests Erupt In PoJK Over Rising Shop Rents and Closures

Local leaders and tenant shopkeepers in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir have organized a protest against authorities for increasing shop rents and sealing premises due to non-payment of the new rates. The tenants demanded immediate action from PoJK Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq to reopen their shops.

The protest, led by Shaukat Nawaz Mir of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), saw sellers and shopkeepers gathering in front of a local chowk to address the sudden closure of their shops.

Shaukat Nawaz Mir stated, “The issue behind the protest is the ongoing dispute between shopkeepers and the state government regarding rent. The Supreme Court of Pakistan has directed that rent should align with market prices. However, different shops are being charged varying rents—PKR 18,000 for one and PKR 26,000 for another. The land is government-owned, yet rents are set arbitrarily. We are simply asking for adherence to the Supreme Court’s directives. Why is this not being followed?”

Mir accused the administration of misinterpreting the Supreme Court’s order. He added, “The Court mandated fair rent, not exorbitant rates. They have misused the Act and are unfairly treating the public by closing shops for non-payment. If anything happens to the sellers, the government will be held responsible.”

Residents expressed their frustration with the government order. One commented, “Shops were closed unexpectedly with no prior notice, and rents were increased by 6 percent. These shops, mostly selling meat, vegetables, and fruits, are crucial for our income. How will we survive if these actions continue?”

Another resident noted that the PoJK government had earlier promised to provide permanent shops in good condition, a promise that remains unfulfilled. The rent increase adds to the uncertainty, impacting the ability to manage family expenses and ensure survival.

(With ANI Inputs)

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