Pakistan Army continues brutality in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir; over 50 killed so far

Islamabad: The ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) appear to be evolving into a major movement. Protesters claim that 53 people have died and many others have been injured in actions taken by the Pakistani administration and security forces. These developments have heightened tensions across the region.

The Eidgah ground in Rawalakot has emerged as the epicenter of this movement. Protesters allege that security forces cracked down on people who had gathered to voice their grievances and demand their rights. Those associated with the movement claim that 16 people died and 37 were injured in this crackdown, further fueling public anger.

Large numbers of people have taken to the streets in several cities, including Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Kotli, and Mirpur. Activists claim that over 80,000 people are participating in the protests. The demonstrators accuse the Pakistan government of ignoring their issues and are demanding their rights.

Why Did Pakistan Ban JAAC?

The movement is being led by the Jammu-Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Pakistan has banned this organization. Government officials state that the JAAC's activities were disrupting law and order, while the organization maintains that it is peacefully raising the people's voice.

Attempts are being made to suppress the movement. Several impassioned statements were made during the protests in Rawalakot. Sardar Aman Khan, one of the organizers, urged protesters not to back down. He stated that the movement has reached a critical juncture where people are prepared to pay any price for their rights.

His statements and videos are rapidly going viral on social media. Some participants have expressed intense anger against the Pakistan government, stating that the region's fundamental issues have been ignored for years and that attempts are made to suppress people whenever they speak up for their rights.

What are the protesters' main demands?

Six key issues are said to be at the heart of the ongoing movement in PoK. Protesters are angry over the power crisis, rising inflation, and unemployment. They allege that while local resources are exploited, the benefits do not reach the people of the region.

Additionally, there is opposition to the reservation of 12 out of 45 seats for refugees in the elections scheduled for July 27; agitators view this as detrimental to local representation. Political marginalization, internet restrictions, and the ban imposed on the JAAC are also cited as major reasons for the protests.

Protesters claim that attempts are being made to stifle their voices through internet service restrictions across the region. Meanwhile, the Pakistan government maintains that these measures were necessary to ensure security and maintain law and order.

India has also responded to these developments. Expressing concern over the events in PoK, the Indian side stated that the situation raises serious questions regarding the rights of the people in Pakistan-occupied territories. India asserts that the people there should have access to democratic opportunities.