The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has attributed the recent protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to Islamabad’s systematic plundering of resources from the region. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Pakistan’s exploitative policies have deprived the local people of their rightful resources and benefits. The MEA reiterates that Jammu, Ladakh, and Kashmir are integral parts of India and will always remain so.
The recent violent protests in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) highlight the growing economic disparities and exploitation of the local population. Despite attempts by Pakistan and Western media to downplay the severity of the protests, the unrest in Samahmi, Sehansa, Mirpur, Dadyal, Rawalkot, Khuiratta, Tattapani, and Hattian Bala indicates a rising tide of discontent.
Anti-government protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) turned deadly on Monday after Pakistani Rangers, a paramilitary force, opened fire on demonstrators protesting rising prices, killing at least three civilians and injuring several others. The incident occurred despite Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s announcement of immediate financial relief for the region.
In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), protests have erupted over heavy taxation, high inflation, and electricity shortages. The Pakistani government has responded with a heavy-handed crackdown, deploying police who have fired tear gas, pellets, and bullets in an attempt to quell the demonstrations. Two protesters have been killed in the violence.
The protests were organized by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), an umbrella group representing various political parties in PoK. The APHC has condemned the Pakistani government’s actions and called for an end to the violence.
The Pakistani government has denied that its forces have used excessive force and has blamed the protesters for instigating the violence. However, videos have emerged that appear to show Pakistani police firing live ammunition into the crowd.
The protests have highlighted the growing dissatisfaction among the people of PoK with the Pakistani government. The region has been a source of tension between India and Pakistan for decades, and the recent violence is likely to further strain relations between the two countries.
A crippling strike and protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s (PoK) capital Muzaffarabad turned violent on Friday as demonstrators clashed with security forces. The strike, called by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), was sparked by a police crackdown on its members and activists. Protesters pelted stones at police, who responded with teargas shelling. Businesses remained closed, and normal life was disrupted in several districts. The JKJAAC has been protesting against high electricity bills, demanding that electricity be provided at the production cost of hydropower in the state.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has expressed optimism that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will eventually merge with India. In an interview with PTI, Singh stated that the region’s economic progress and return to peace will lead the people of PoK to demand unification with India. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated that PoK is an integral part of India, emphasizing a Parliament resolution to that effect. Meanwhile, Jammu & Kashmir National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah cautioned that Pakistan also possesses nuclear weapons.
