A prominent activist revealed that a protest movement in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) is escalating, driven by demands for increased autonomy, local control over resources, and political reforms. Demonstrations surged following the ban on the Joint Awami Action Committee, with protestors alleging a violent crackdown by Pakistani authorities. The activist accused Pakistani law enforcement of using force, deploying a large number of security personnel and committing widespread abuses in PoJK.
The activist highlighted that security forces had reportedly resorted to violence, including entering homes, looting property, and obstructing medical aid to injured protesters. Due to severe restrictions in the region, independent verification of casualty figures has become challenging. The ongoing agitation differs from past protests as residents no longer trust promises made by Pakistani authorities during previous negotiations. Protesters are demanding greater local autonomy, control over resources, relief from economic hardships, and changes to the region’s political structure.
The activist emphasized the unprecedented scale of the current protest, with residents expressing distrust towards externally imposed political representatives. The protestors are resolute in their stance, vowing to persist until their demands are met. Criticizing recent US engagement with Pakistan’s military leadership, the activist urged the Trump administration to reconsider its alignment, stressing that Pakistan’s military actions have adverse effects on the people of PoJK and other regions. The activist called for international support for the residents of PoJK, emphasizing the need to stand with them in their quest for autonomy and rights.
