A civil rights coalition in Pakistan-administered Kashmir suspended demonstrations on Saturday after the government agreed to most demands. The alliance of traders and advocacy organizations had sought increased funding for public infrastructure instead of government official benefits. At least 10 people died in the protests that brought thousands to Muzaffarabad earlier in the week.
Government negotiators committed 10 billion Pakistani rupees for electrical system improvements and expanded health and education programs. Alliance leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir ordered protesters to leave the regional capital. Seven civilians and three police officers died when security forces clashed with demonstrators who arrived on Monday from surrounding communities.
Similar unrest occurred last year before Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif authorized 24 billion rupees in subsidies for flour and electricity. Kashmir has remained contested between Pakistan and India since both nations gained independence from Britain in 1947.
Government negotiators committed 10 billion Pakistani rupees for electrical system improvements and expanded health and education programs. Alliance leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir ordered protesters to leave the regional capital. Seven civilians and three police officers died when security forces clashed with demonstrators who arrived on Monday from surrounding communities.
Similar unrest occurred last year before Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif authorized 24 billion rupees in subsidies for flour and electricity. Kashmir has remained contested between Pakistan and India since both nations gained independence from Britain in 1947.
