JAAC Leader Calls for Support Amid Crackdown
Sardar Aman Khan, a core member of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), has issued a video appeal urging people across Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, and other regions to support the July 5 protest in Pakistan Occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK). The protest comes in response to what he describes as severe oppression by Pakistani authorities.
Details of the Appeal
In the viral video, Khan addresses people of the Kashmir Valley, Baramulla, Poonch, Mendhar, Rajouri, Jammu, Ladakh, Kargil, and Gilgit Baltistan. He states that for nearly a month, PoJK has faced brutal crackdowns on peaceful protests for basic rights. He alleges that food and medicine supply routes are blocked, and that the rulers are suppressing even the act of breathing. He calls for widespread support on July 5 to raise voices against the cruelty and injustice.
Previous Incidents and Allegations
On June 30, JAAC criticized Pakistani authorities after a political delegation was reportedly stopped from entering PoJK. The committee also claimed that food supplies were obstructed and access curtailed. JAAC maintains its campaign is peaceful and focused on securing fundamental rights, vowing not to surrender despite continued oppression.
International Reaction and Activist Statements
On July 2, the National Anti-Terrorism Front India protested outside the United Nations office, demanding global intervention. Amnesty International condemned Pakistan's heavy-handed tactics ahead of regional elections, accusing authorities of violent suppression and unlawfully designating JAAC as a proscribed organization. Amnesty labeled the ban a disproportionate attack on freedom of association.
Activist Amjad Ayub Mirza's Concerns
Prominent PoJK activist Amjad Ayub Mirza raised concerns about an economic blockade, stating Pakistan has disallowed food entry into PoJK. He noted that over 600 workers and activists have been arrested, including JAAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir. He added that July 5, previously observed as Kashmir Solidarity Day, will now be a protest against Pakistan, with thousands expected in London as well.
Current Situation and Calls for Boycott
Activists allege Pakistan has created an economic blockade, with no food allowed and travel stopped. Pakistani forces are reportedly using drones for surveillance of sit-in protests. PoJK activists have called for a boycott of local elections scheduled for July 27.
