New Delhi, July 15: Amid ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), reports suggest that Pakistani authorities are planning to target the leadership of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) to quell the movement.
The JAC has been leading demonstrations against the government’s alleged failure to provide better facilities, rising inflation, political discrimination, and administrative neglect in PoK. Despite warnings from the government and security establishment, the organization remains steadfast in its stance.
According to an intelligence officer, the patience of Pakistan’s power structure, particularly the military, is wearing thin. The officer stated that Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir is in favor of ending the protests and is pressuring the government not to yield to the demonstrators’ demands.
The officer claimed that Munir has previously instructed security forces in meetings to suppress the movement forcefully. Following international outcry regarding the situation, authorities are eager to restore normalcy in the region by swiftly ending the protests.
Despite the alleged threats, JAC leadership has refused to back down. They have urged the public not to fear any pressure and to continue the movement. In an emotional appeal, leaders stated that even if all the leadership were to be killed, the movement should persist as a public uprising.
The JAC asserts that its movement addresses the rising cost of living, political discrimination, alleged atrocities against minorities, and administrative negligence. The organization has accused the Pakistani government of attempting to suppress dissent rather than addressing the public’s issues.
India has also expressed concern over the alleged use of force in PoK. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that instead of addressing the legitimate concerns of local residents, Pakistan has resorted to police action, internet restrictions, disruptions in the supply of essential goods, and the use of force against unarmed civilians.
Meanwhile, tensions are expected to rise in the region following the JAC’s announcement of a large march. Officials indicate that women and children may also participate in this march. Pakistani security forces have set up blockades and warned of strict action against any attempts to breach them.
The JAC has decided to continue its march towards Muzaffarabad on Wednesday. Officials note that the movement has evolved beyond mere demands and is gradually taking the form of a resistance movement.
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