Karachi, In Udhampur and Kupwara districts of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, local residents have taken to the streets in protest against what they describe as the anti-people policies of the authorities. These demonstrations reflect growing discontent among the populace over issues ranging from economic measures to basic utilities.

According to Kashmir Media Service, a significant protest unfolded at Salathia Chowk in Udhampur town, where people expressed their outrage against the 100 percent hike in toll charges at the Chenani-Nashri Toll Plaza. The protesters voiced their disapproval of the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Indian government and the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), even burning effigies in opposition to the tax increase at the toll plaza.

Meanwhile, in the Kupwara district, residents of Magam held a demonstration against the Water Resources Department. They protested the department’s failure to provide a regular supply of potable drinking water to the area, which has been ongoing for several days. The lack of water supply, persisting for about seventeen days, has led to acute shortages, with the authorities reportedly not taking effective measures to address the issue despite repeated pleas from the residents.

These protests in Udhampur and Kupwara highlight the growing frustration among the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir over policies they perceive as detrimental to their wellbeing and the inadequate response of the authorities to their basic needs.