Why did people take to the streets in Pakistan occupied Kashmir? Is public anger against Pakistan increasing in PoK? What is the reason being given behind the firing on the protesters? Why are thousands of people raising anti-Pakistan slogans in PoK? Is Pakistan’s hold in PoK weakening?
New Delhi. A major protest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) turned violent on Thursday when the Pakistani Army opened fire on protesters. According to reports, at least 16 people were killed in the shooting while 37 others were injured. This demonstration was completely peaceful in the beginning. A large number of local people had taken to the streets demanding flour, rice, electricity and other basic amenities at cheaper rates. The protesters were demanding their rights and better living conditions.
Crowd of thousands of people gathered in Rawalkot
During the demonstration, a crowd of about 60,000 to 70,000 people gathered at the Idgah ground in Rawalakot. The protesters raised slogans against Pakistan’s policies and its control in the region. People were demanding justice for those who were killed in the clashes between protesters and security forces on Tuesday. According to local reports, around 30 people were killed and around 200 were injured in that incident.
“This terrorism, there is a uniform behind it” became the main slogan of the protest.
During the demonstration, people raised slogans against the Pakistani army and security forces. The most resonant slogan was, “Yeh jo daheshgardi hai, iske peeche verdi hai.” This slogan has now become a major symbol of protests across the region and reflects the growing discontent of the people.
Markets remained closed in Khai Gala village, protest march taken out
Following the violence, residents of Khai Gala village closed their markets and took out a protest march. There was an atmosphere of tension in many areas after the firing and clashes. According to locals, traces of blood were seen on the roads and fields, while many families continued searching for their missing or injured relatives.
Announcement to continue the movement
Sardar Aman Khan, a political activist of PoK and one of the prominent leaders of the movement, said that the movement will continue despite the loss of life and property. He alleged that the Pakistan administration tries to suppress the voices of people demanding rights and justice by often labeling them as “terrorists”.
JAAC and local leaders demand independent investigation
The protest rally was also addressed by local political leaders and representatives of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Speakers criticized the actions of authorities, saying excessive force was used against protesters. He demanded an independent and impartial investigation into the cases of the dead and injured.
Appeal for intervention from the international community
The leaders present at the rally appealed to the international community, human rights organizations and global organizations to pay attention to the situation. He said that the affected families should get justice and the entire matter should be investigated impartially so that those responsible can be held accountable.
Amnesty International expressed concern
Meanwhile, Amnesty International has also criticized the action taken against protesters in PoJK. The organization alleged that Pakistani authorities are using excessive force, suppressing dissenting voices and violating people’s basic human rights ahead of upcoming regional elections. Amnesty said the rights of people carrying out peaceful protests must be protected and international standards of rule of law and human rights must be followed in handling the situation.