Deadly clashes broke out in Pakistan-administered Kashmir on Wednesday as thousands of demonstrators demanding subsidies on food, electricity, and services confronted security forces.

Axar.az, citing ABC News, reports that four people were killed—three police officers and a civilian—and over 100 were injured, including at least eight officers in critical condition after being beaten with sticks and stones.

The violence began when armed protesters, affiliated with the Awami Joint Action Committee (AJAC), attacked police deployed to prevent road blockades and property damage. Videos showed demonstrators punching and beating officers, pelting them with stones, and stripping uniforms. Police officials said their forces refrained from returning fire to avoid further deaths.

Prime Minister of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, confirmed the casualties and said his administration had already met 90% of the protesters’ demands, such as reduced electricity tariffs, local government reforms, and withdrawal of legal cases. However, two demands — cutting the number of ministers and scrapping refugee-reserved seats — require legislation. Haq expressed willingness to restart talks, with ministers stationed in Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot for negotiations, but warned against further unrest.