Protests Continue in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir as Death Toll Rises to 12

Islamabad, July 15: Protests in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) have escalated, with the death toll from clashes between local demonstrators and Pakistani security forces rising to 12.

Reports indicate that during increasing anti-government protests in Rawalakot, security forces opened fire on demonstrators, resulting in several civilian casualties.

This situation has drawn significant criticism towards Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), described the ongoing conditions in POK as “extremely concerning” and questioned the roles of both leaders.

According to Pakistan’s leading newspaper, Dawn, at least two security personnel also lost their lives in the clashes on Tuesday. Pakistani media reported that over 4,000 Rangers have been deployed in the area, and restrictions have been placed on media coverage.

As the protests enter their sixth consecutive week, thousands gathered in Rawalakot on Tuesday. Sardar Aman Khan, a leader of the Joint Action Committee (JAC), accused Pakistan of “forcibly occupying” the region and dismissed Islamabad’s longstanding claims over the area.

Addressing the crowd, he stated that POK should not be referred to as a “disputed area,” but rather as an “occupied territory.” He emphasized, “This is an area that has been forcibly occupied.”

He vowed that the movement would continue until victory is achieved, asserting that the struggle would not cease even if protesters had to sacrifice their lives.

The massive rally featured strong slogans against the Pakistani government, with demonstrators declaring that their movement would persist until they achieve their goals.

Meanwhile, the United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) condemned the alleged killings of civilians by Pakistani security forces in POK on Wednesday.

The UKPNP urged the Pakistani government to immediately cease the excessive and lethal force against peaceful civilians, halt unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests, threats, and forced disappearances. They called for unrestricted access to food, medicine, treatment, and humanitarian aid for the people. Additionally, they demanded the lifting of communication restrictions and full freedom of movement for the residents.

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