The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday strongly condemned reports of violence against protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that New Delhi has observed a pattern of fake news and videos originating from Pakistan in connection with the ongoing protests. He emphasized that this is a desperate attempt by Pakistan to cover up its own failings and divert attention from its human rights abuses.
Severe Police Brutality in PoK
Jaiswal also highlighted reports of excessive force being used against civilians in PoK. There are reports of severe police brutality in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in which several people have been killed and many injured. We hope the international community will hold Pakistan accountable for its misdeeds and abuses, he added.
Escalating Tensions and Casualties
His remarks came as tensions continue to escalate across PoK following deadly clashes between protesters and Pakistani security forces. A shutdown strike remained in effect in several areas, while reports suggested that communication services had been disrupted after violence in Rawalakot and Muzaffarabad. Demonstrations have spread across multiple towns, including Bhimbar and Kotli, with hundreds of people taking part in anti-government protests. According to reports, at least eleven civilians were killed during clashes on Sunday night.
International Attention
The unrest has also attracted international attention. More than 50 British parliamentarians have written to UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper expressing concern over reports of a communications blackout, arrests, and escalating tensions in PoK. In their letter, the lawmakers said British Kashmiris had struggled to contact relatives in the region and warned that restrictions on communications risked worsening an already volatile situation.
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