Violence has escalated sharply in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as anti-government demonstrations continue to spread across the region, with reports alleging that Pakistani security forces opened fire on protesters during a major crackdown. According to multiple reports, more than 30 people have been killed, hundreds injured and several individuals remain unaccounted for following the violence. Reports also claim that internet services have been suspended across parts of the region. These claims, however, have not been independently verified.
The unrest has triggered strong political reactions within Pakistan and renewed criticism from India over Islamabad’s handling of the region.
Pakistan Leadership Defends Crackdown
Amid the growing protests, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif defended the government’s position and ruled out any engagement with the demonstrators.”There will be no talks with them,” Asif said, describing the protesters as “enemies” and equating them with India.
His remarks were echoed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Special Adviser Rana Sanaullah Khan, who justified the use of force against the protesters.”Those whom Pakistan nurtured are now challenging the state. In such a situation, force will be used,” Rana Sanaullah said.
Why Are Protests Erupting in PoK?
The agitation is being led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which has accused Pakistan of manipulating the region’s political system, particularly the allocation of reserved Assembly seats.
Apart from political grievances, demonstrators have raised concerns over rising inflation, unemployment, alleged discrimination, poor governance and restrictions on civil liberties. What began as protests over economic hardships has now expanded into a broader movement demanding political accountability and democratic reforms.
India Blames Pakistan’s Policies
India has maintained that the unrest reflects deep-rooted governance failures in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said the protests are the outcome of Pakistan’s economic exploitation, suppression of fundamental rights and administrative oppression in the region.
New Delhi has also criticised Pakistan’s electoral exercises in PoK, calling them attempts to legitimise what India describes as its illegal occupation while diverting attention from alleged human rights violations.
Farooq Abdullah Calls for International Intervention
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah also voiced concern over the deteriorating situation and urged the international community to take note.
He appealed to the United Nations Human Rights Commission to visit the region and assess the situation on the ground.”I have appealed to the United Nations Human Rights Commission to visit the region, understand the problems faced by the people and help resolve them. I have also urged the Prime Minister and the External Affairs Minister to take up the matter,” Abdullah said.
Situation Remains Tense
With protests continuing across several areas and conflicting narratives emerging from both sides, the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir remains volatile. Authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive official account of the reported casualties, while international attention is increasingly focused on developments in the region.
