PoK Protests: Many people have been claimed dead during action by security forces in Rawalakot in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Amidst the increasing protests, India has made serious allegations against Pakistan.
POK Rawalakot Violence: Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is once again in the headlines due to violence and protests. According to local media reports, at least six civilians were killed during the crackdown by security forces in Rawalakot. After the incident, tension has increased in the entire area. India has criticized Pakistan on this development, saying that it is the result of “systematic exploitation and oppression of rights” of the people there for years.
What happened in Rawalakot?
According to reports, clashes broke out between security forces and protesters near the New Bus Terminal in Rawalakot. It has been claimed that during this period many people died in the firing by security forces. The names of many civilians including Zahid Mughal, Zafar Mughal, Arsalan Akbar and Wajid Hayat have emerged among the dead.
According to local reports, protests have continued to intensify in the area in recent days. Some reports also claim that many people, including civilians and security personnel, have lost their lives in demonstrations and clashes since the beginning of June. These claims could not be independently verified.
Why are protests erupting in PoK?
According to reports, there is resentment among the people in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir due to long standing inflation, increase in electricity rates, lack of affordable wheat supply and economic crisis. Demonstrations are being held in many districts under the leadership of Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKAAC).
Markets, educational institutions and many major roads have been affected due to the protests. Some local groups have also alleged that internet services have been disrupted and the supply of essential goods has been affected. Whereas in America, people of PoK origin demonstrated outside the White House and demanded intervention from the international community.
India made serious allegations against Pakistan
India’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir are the result of long-standing alleged repression and administrative exploitation of the fundamental rights of the people there.
The Foreign Ministry alleged that instead of resolving the grievances of the local people, Pakistan is taking steps like using force, shutting down the internet and disrupting the supply of essential commodities. India has also appealed to the international community to hold Pakistan accountable on this issue. At present the situation remains tense in many parts of PoK. Different claims are coming forward regarding the incidents and the entire matter is being monitored.