Tensions continue to escalate in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) after Pakistani security forces shelled tear gas on protesters following fresh clashes with workers of the Joint Awami Action Committee. The situation remains grim as a shutter-down strike persists amid a communications blackout imposed after deadly clashes between protesters and security forces in Rawalakot and Muzaffarabad.
Anti-Pakistan Protests Intensify
Hundreds of protesters have taken to the streets in cities such as Bhimbar and Kotli, with shutdowns continuing. The recent unrest follows Sunday night's clashes that claimed the lives of seven civilians, according to a report by Dawn. The crackdown by Pakistani authorities has drawn global condemnation.
International Response
More than 50 members of the British Parliament have written to UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper expressing concern over reports of a communications blackout, arrests, and escalating tensions in PoJK. In a letter sent on June 6, Bradford East MP Imran Hussain, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Kashmir, highlighted reports of internet and mobile service disruptions and growing unrest. The parliamentarians noted they had been contacted by numerous British Kashmiris unable to contact relatives in PoJK. They expressed concern over arrests, including those of British nationals, and the reported breakdown of dialogue between authorities and representatives of the Joint Awami Action Committee. They warned that restrictions on communications risk increasing uncertainty and further escalating tensions.
Condemnation from Former J&K Police Chief
Former Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir, Shesh Paul Vaid, strongly condemned the violence, accusing Pakistani security forces of using excessive force against civilians and peaceful protesters. He stated, "The situation in PoJK is extremely serious. Many people have been killed and several others injured due to indiscriminate firing. According to reports, Pakistan Rangers, the Pakistan Army, and local police have opened fire, resulting in multiple casualties." Vaid asserted that the unrest has exposed Pakistan's "false narrative" on Jammu and Kashmir, as the people of PoJK are now challenging Islamabad's policies. He compared the firing on peaceful protesters to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, claiming that citizens demanding their rights were met with bullets instead of dialogue. He added that Pakistan has never genuinely cared for the welfare of Kashmiris and has repeatedly used force to suppress dissent.
