Protest in Bradford Over PoJK Siege
Members of the Kashmiri diaspora staged a peaceful demonstration in Bradford, United Kingdom, on July 8, expressing grave concern over the ongoing siege of peaceful sit-ins in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The protesters called on the international community to intervene, alleging continued repression by Pakistani authorities.
Demonstrators accused security forces of killing civilians during the unrest and maintaining a blockade that restricts movement and limits access to essential services. They also alleged that more than 1,000 detainees had been forcibly transferred from PoJK into Pakistan, demanding their immediate release.
Allegations of Blockade and Forced Transfers
Holding placards and raising slogans, the protesters criticised the reported closure of entry points into PoJK, stating that the restrictions have isolated communities already affected by the unrest. They argued that the blockade hampers humanitarian access and worsens conditions for residents.
Addressing the gathering, diaspora members appealed to the Government of the United Kingdom and the wider international community to take urgent notice. They called for diplomatic engagement to ensure unrestricted humanitarian access, the reopening of all entry routes, and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms for the people of PoJK.
Amnesty International Condemns Pakistan's Tactics
Watchdog group Amnesty International strongly condemned Pakistan's heavy-handed tactics ahead of upcoming regional elections in PoJK. Amnesty accused Pakistani authorities of deploying violent measures to suppress peaceful political dissent and violate fundamental human rights, unlawfully designating the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) as a "proscribed organisation."
Amnesty fiercely criticised the ban on JAAC, labelling it a disproportionate attack on freedom of association and peaceful political activism. As local tensions simmer ahead of the regional polls, activists and watchdog groups continue to pressure the international community to hold Islamabad accountable.
