Islamabad, July 15: Discontent in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) continued for the 36th consecutive day, with thousands gathering 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 long-standing “fake narrative” regarding the area.
Addressing the gathering, 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 occupied.”
He emphasized that the movement would persist until “victory” is achieved, asserting that protesters would continue to fight for their rights, even at the cost of their lives.
The massive rally in Rawalakot saw slogans raised against the Pakistani government and administration, with demonstrators vowing to continue their movement 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. According to reports from the English daily Dawn, clashes between security forces and protesters in Rawalakot resulted in the deaths of seven more civilians amid escalating anti-government demonstrations.
The UKPNP called for an “independent international investigation” into these deaths, the alleged use of force against peaceful protesters, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and restrictions imposed on civilians.
The party urged the Pakistani government to immediately halt the use of excessive and lethal force against peaceful citizens, address the alleged unlawful killings, enforced disappearances, and arbitrary arrests, and ensure that all detained individuals are presented before competent courts for due legal process.
Additionally, the UKPNP demanded that authorities restore unhindered access to food, medicines, healthcare services, and humanitarian assistance, lift communication restrictions, and ensure the freedom of movement for people in the region.
The 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, with strict blockades, curfews, and communication restrictions still in place.
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