Islamabad, July 15: Discontent in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) has persisted for the 36th consecutive day. On Tuesday, thousands gathered in Rawalakot, where Joint Action Committee (JAC) leader Sardar Aman Khan accused Pakistan of “forcibly occupying” the region and dismissed Islamabad’s long-standing “fake narrative” regarding the area.
Addressing the crowd, Khan opposed the characterization of POK as a “disputed territory,” stating, “This is not a disputed area; it is an occupied territory. It has been forcibly seized.”
He emphasized that the movement would continue until they achieve “victory.” Khan asserted that protesters would keep fighting for their rights, even if it meant sacrificing their lives.
The large gathering in Rawalakot saw chants against the Pakistani government and administration. Protesters declared that their movement would persist until they attain success.
Meanwhile, the United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) condemned the alleged killing of seven civilians by Pakistani security forces during ongoing protests in POK on Wednesday.
According to a report by the English daily Dawn, seven more civilians died during clashes between security forces and protesters amid escalating anti-government demonstrations in Rawalakot.
The UKPNP demanded an “independent international investigation” into these deaths, the alleged use of force against peaceful protesters, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and restrictions imposed on citizens.
The party urged the Pakistani government to immediately halt the excessive and lethal force against peaceful civilians, prevent alleged unlawful killings, arbitrary detentions, and enforced disappearances, and ensure that all detainees are presented before competent courts for due legal process.
The UKPNP also called on authorities to restore unhindered access to food, medicine, healthcare, and humanitarian aid, lift communication restrictions, and ensure the freedom of movement for people in the region.
The party appealed to the United Nations, European Union, United Kingdom, United States, and the international community to send an independent fact-check mission to POK to investigate alleged human rights violations and deaths, and to monitor the ground situation.
These ongoing protests in POK are viewed as a challenge to Islamabad’s decades-long control. Reports indicate that many have died and numerous others have been injured due to actions by Pakistani security forces, while strict blockades, curfews, and communication restrictions continue in the area.
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