Civil society group announces July 15 long march amid growing unrest in PoK
Islamabad, July 10
Amid escalating unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir that has left dozens dead, the Joint Awami Action Committee announced a long march towards Muzaffarabad on July 15, while urging the people across the region to join the protest in large numbers.
Citing reports, the JAAC said that another two young men were killed in the firing by the Pakistani forces, as tensions in the occupied territory intensify.
"Every ruler sitting in the Muzaffarabad Assembly is responsible for this massacre - People will remember that the killers of these young men of ours are the Pakistani forces and the rulers of Muzaffarabad," JAAC posted on X.
"On one side we are lifting the bodies of our young brothers, the remains of those killed a month ago are still kept in custody, and on the other side the rulers are turning this massacre into an election celebration by ignoring it - We will take revenge for the blood of the deceased from these killers," it added.
Meanwhile, the United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP) claimed that since June 7, millions of people in PoK have been affected by a prolonged communication blackout, restrictions on movement, shortages of food, medicine and other essential supplies imposed by the Pakistani authorities, in the wake of the continuing civil unrest.
"Peaceful demonstrations, sit-ins and public gatherings have taken place across the region amid growing humanitarian concerns," it added.
The UKPNP urged the United Nations, the international community, governments and human rights organisations to help protect the lives, dignity and fundamental rights of all civilians and to press Pakistani authorities for an immediate end to violence against peaceful civilians in PoK.
It also urged the global community to seek the lifting of the blockade and restoration of the free movement of people, goods and humanitarian assistance in the occupied territory.
The group called on the Pakistani authorities to bring JAAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir and all other detainees and disappeared persons before competent and independent courts without delay.
"Shaukat Nawaz Mir and all persons subjected to enforced disappearance must have their whereabouts immediately disclosed. They must be brought before competent and independent courts without delay and guaranteed access to legal representation, due process and a fair, impartial and public trial in accordance with international human rights standards," it added.
Expressing grave concern over the escalating human rights abuses in PoK, the United Kingdom Conservative Party leader and MP, Bob Blackman, took to X and posted: " The killing in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir has not stopped. More lives have been lost, the crackdown is continuing, and still no justice for the victims. We must demand accountability."
— IANS
Reader Comments
The communication blackout and blockade are clear signs of an oppressive regime scared of its own people. This is what happens when you deny basic democratic rights. Hope the long march on July 15 sends a strong message to Islamabad!
While we condemn the violence, we must also question why this doesn't get the same media coverage as other conflicts. The world remains silent because it's convenient. Kashmir has always been a victim of geopolitics. Stay strong, our PoK brethren!
The UK party leader speaking up is good, but we need more than statements. The UN must act on the ground. Those killed deserve justice. It's also a reminder that the so-called 'Kashmir issue' is actually about the freedom and rights of the people, not just territorial claims.
As an outsider looking in, this situation is deeply concerning. The Indian perspective on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir's human rights record is unfortunately validated here. Everyday people just want to live with dignity. Praying for peace and justice. 🙏
Respectful criticism: While we in India may have our own issues in Kashmir, we cannot ignore the blatant oppression happening in PoK. The killings, disappearances, and blockade are inexcusable. It's time for the world to hold Pakistan accountable for its actions in the territory it controls.
K We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.