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PoJK Erupts In Protests Demanding Release Of Abducted Activists

June 20, 2024, 5:17 pm

The abduction of Khwaja Khursheed Ahmed, a prominent figure from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), has ignited widespread protests across the region. Local activists and student leaders organized sit-ins and demonstrations in various districts of PoJK on Wednesday, demanding Ahmed’s unconditional release along with other detained political activists.

Protesters warned that if their demands were not met, they would initiate a long march from Kotli to Muzaffarabad. During one sit-in, student leader Khawaja Mujtaba Banday expressed his concerns, stating, “We have been highlighting the issue of enforced disappearances for a long time. Our activists advocating for people’s rights are being abducted. They talk big about freedom, but the reality is different. It seems our struggle for rights is never-ending. Every time we speak up, our activists are abducted by unknown men. We condemn the authorities who use covert means to suppress dissent.”

Banday stressed the importance of due process, saying, “If anyone is accused of wrongdoing, the courts and constitution of PoJK are here to ensure justice. No constitution allows for the abduction and torture of individuals.” He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all imprisoned activists from PoJK, including Ahmed, and criticized the administration’s treatment of locals.

Local leader Khan Ilyas echoed these sentiments, stating, “We have endured this for too long. During recent protests, some elements accused members of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) of instigating violence and causing destruction. They targeted JAAC members who have been actively involved in the struggle for Muzaffarabad.”

Ilyas voiced concerns over the false allegations and targeting of activists by local authorities, calling for clarifications regarding recent arrests and abductions. He asserted that peaceful protest is a fundamental right of every citizen.

The protests reflect growing unrest in PoJK over human rights violations and the suppression of dissent by authorities.

United Kashmir People’s National Party Denounces Murder of Kashmiri Man in Pakistan, Calls for Justice

June 13, 2024, 2:13 pm

The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) has vehemently condemned the murder of a Kashmiri man in Pakistan. Chaudhry Usman, from Jalwa Gujran in the Kotli district of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, was reportedly abducted in Rawalpindi and found brutally killed in Chakwal after being missing for a week.

UKPNP chairman Sardar Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, along with central leaders Sardar Nasir Aziz Khan and other party members, condemned this atrocious act. They emphasized the troubling trend of targeted killings of PoJK residents in Pakistan, particularly in Punjab. The UKPNP leaders criticized the higher authorities, administration, and judiciary for failing to deliver justice, noting the lack of arrests or punishments for the perpetrators.

Expressing deep sorrow over the situation, the UKPNP demanded a thorough investigation into the killings of Kashmiris and urged that the perpetrators be brought to justice, while providing compensation to the affected families. Additionally, they called on the United Nations to pressure Pakistan to take immediate measures to protect the lives, property, and freedoms of people in PoJK and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan.

This incident is part of a series of similar targeted violence, raising concerns about the safety and security of Kashmiris living in Pakistan. Reports indicate that such targeted attacks often go unpunished, with perpetrators rarely held accountable, perpetuating a cycle of fear and insecurity among Kashmiri communities in PoJK.

PoJK: Protesters Block Neelam Valley Road, Demand Relocation Of High Tension Tower

June 1, 2024, 5:57 pm

POJK: Many protesters blocked the Neelam Valley Road in Muzaffarabad, PoJK, demanding the immediate relocation of a high-tension line tower situated on a hilltop, citing the risk of landslides and potential accidents.

They attributed the precarious situation to shoddy construction and neglect by the Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (PWPDA).

Zahir Bukhari, a local leader, highlighted that minor landslides have occurred for the past two years, with the authorities showing disregard for the issue.

He also highlighted the risks to approximately 50 homes in proximity to the high-tension line and the vital significance of Neelam Valley Road for urban traffic flow.

“This serious condition of this hill is because of the poor cutting of the hill. There are at least 50 houses on the other side of this high-tension line which are in danger, and the Neelam Valley Road is a lifeline of the city’s traffic. So, this situation can anytime turn into a major accident for the people said protestor Bukhari.

Despite lodging complaints with the local administration for over two years and a site inspection by the former Deputy Commissioner, there have been no improvements.

“For at least 2 years we have been complaining to the local administration. The previous Deputy Commissioner along with me had come to this very location for an inspection and still, there is no result. Even during the inspection of the DC mini landslides were taking place… now the condition is so bad that it can grow into a life-threatening accident. It is high time that the local administration takes serious action on the matter, but no one is listening to our complaints.” stressed Zahir Bukhari

Other residents also echoed similar sentiments, stating, that despite legal filings, requests, and street protests, the administration has failed to address the issue. Complaints have been escalated to senior authorities in Peshawar, yet no measures have been taken to resolve the problem.

Pakistan Govt Lawyer Declares PoJK As “Foreign Territory” In HC Habeas Corpus Petition For ‘Missing’ Poet

June 1, 2024, 3:35 pm

Admitting that Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) is not part of Pakistan, the government lawyer informed the Islamabad High Court that poet Ahmed Farhad Shah, currently in police custody in PoJK, cannot be brought to the court in the federal capital as he is in “foreign territory” beyond the country’s jurisdiction, according to Dunya News.

At the beginning of the proceedings, Additional Attorney General Munawar Iqbal Duggal stated that cases had been registered against Farhad in Azad Kashmir, and he remained on physical remand until June 2. He mentioned that Farhad’s family had met him, suggesting that the habeas corpus petition be disposed of.

According to Dunya News, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani presided over the proceedings on the plea filed by Arooj Zainab, Farhad’s spouse. The petitioner’s lawyer, Imaan Mazari, emphasized that her client not only sought her husband’s return but also demanded action against those accountable for his enforced disappearance.

The High Court insisted that the case would only conclude upon Farhad’s appearance in court. AAG Duggal argued that Kashmir was a foreign territory with its own constitution and courts, treating judgments of Pakistani courts similarly to those of foreign courts, as per Dunya News.

The petitioner’s attorney informed the court that Farhad’s family had traveled from Islamabad to the Dhirkot police station, but upon arrival, they were informed that he had been transferred to Muzaffarabad due to the inclusion of sections relating to charges of terrorism.

When Justice Kayani inquired where Farhad had been before his detention on May 29, the Islamabad prosecutor general stated that the PoJK court would handle it. Justice Kayani emphasized the necessity for everyone to adhere to the law, while the prosecutor general maintained his adherence to legal procedures, reported Dunya News.

“We have to determine the misuse of law,” Kayani responded to the petitioner’s attorney’s plea for the court to consider cases involving the misuse of laws and procedures.

The court adjourned the hearing of the case until June 7, rejecting the request to dispose of the petition for the recovery of poet Ahmed Farhad.

PoJK: Retired Govt Employees Protest, Demand Pension Hike Amid Skyrocketing Inflation

May 28, 2024, 4:21 pm

Several retired government officials from various departments staged a protest on Monday in front of the Prime Minister’s Secretariat of Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in Muzaffarabad. The protestors demanded an urgent increase in pensions to match the skyrocketing inflation rates.

The demonstration was led by Mushtaq Awan, a former secretary of PoJK’s PWD. In addition to demanding higher pensions, the protestors called for medical benefits equivalent to those available to officials in Pakistan’s Punjab Province.

During the protest, Awan criticized the government, saying, “They claim our pensions are a burden, but it is their corruption that truly burdens us. Despite being proven guilty of corruption, they face no consequences. After serving PoJK faithfully, especially during disasters like floods and landslides, we are now left to suffer with no one listening to us. We demand our rightful pensions adjusted for inflation. Our repeated pleas to the general secretary, PM of Pakistan, and PM of PoJK have gone unheard.”

Earlier in May, PoJK witnessed massive protests when the administration ignored public demands for over 10 months. The four-day protest ended when Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a relief package for PoJK. However, local leaders from the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) have announced the resumption of their protest campaign in Muzaffarabad starting May 27.

The JKJAAC has put forward eight key demands to halt their protests. These include transferring all hydropower projects, including the Mangla Dam, to the PoJK government, declaring PoJK a load-shedding-free zone, and establishing a judicial commission of high court judges to investigate corruption within the PoJK Food Department.

PoK Protest Enters Day 6 : Struggle for rights continues

May 15, 2024, 9:34 am

In Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK), violent protests and a shutter-down strike came to an end when Islamabad announced an immediate gift of PKR 23 billion to fulfil requests for reasonable electricity pricing and subsidised wheat flour. Regional issues have been reiterated in a statement made by the UK-based United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP).

The UKPNP emphasised in the statement the long-standing denial of fundamental human rights, pointing out enduring problems such as injustice, inequality, and the deliberate exploitation of natural resources. The party denounced the violence and blamed it on the presence of paramilitary groups like the Frontier and Punjab Constabularies, who are infamous for their ruthless tactics.

Reports surfaced of three civilian deaths and over 100 injuries during firing by Pakistan Rangers and local police, as peaceful protests intensified following a crackdown on local leaders. UKPNP expressed apprehension over the redeployment of para-military forces, fearing further suppression of the people’s movement. The party voiced strong support for the peaceful struggle led by the Awami Action Committee, affirming its pro-people and pro-peace stance.

It vehemently refuted accusations of foreign funding, dismissing alleged ties with India, Taliban, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), Baloch Liberation Army, or any purported Jewish lobby. Shabir Choudhry, President of the Foreign Affairs Committee, UKPNP, condemned the dissemination of false propaganda by Pakistani politicians, secret agencies, and media outlets. He highlighted the lack of credibility in such allegations, citing historical instances of unfounded accusations against dissenting voices.

In its demands, the UKPNP called for the establishment of a national grid in so-called ‘Azad Kashmir’, ensuring local control over electricity production and distribution. It advocated for selling surplus electricity to Pakistan and stressed community control over resources, particularly water reservoirs and dams. Furthermore, the UKPNP demanded the repeal of Act 74, asserting the necessity for autonomous management of affairs in accordance with local priorities and needs.

As tensions ease with Islamabad’s concessions, the people of PoJK remain resolute in their pursuit of justice and autonomy, hopeful for a future free from exploitation and deprivation of fundamental rights.

‘Broad Daylight Murder….Lives In Danger’, Says PoJK Activist Amid Protests

May 14, 2024, 11:16 am

Amjad Ayub Mirza, a well-known PoJK activist who is based in Scotland, has expressed concern about the worsening circumstances in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistani-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), threatening ‘broad daylight murder’ and stating that lives are in danger amid intensifying protests.

“This is the broad daylight murder that is taking place in PoK. Our lives are in danger,” Mirza asserted, offering a glimpse into the chaos gripping the region.

The Awami Action Committee, which is demanding tax-free energy from the Mangla Dam and subsidies on wheat flour, launched a wheel-jam strike that is the cause of the turmoil. Now in its fourth day without end, the strike has become a focal point for inhabitants of PoJK who have been brewing resentment.

The seriousness of the situation is made clear by Mirza’s testimony, which describes altercations between demonstrators and police in Muzaffarabad, Dadyal, Mirpur, and other parts of PoJK. The arrest of several leaders and activists as a result of overnight police raids fueled the dissent even further.

“Suddenly the protesters hit back and the Rangers retreated,” Mirza said, describing the volatile turn of events, adding, “It seemed as if the Rangers had disappeared from the scene, but then they came with a heavy contingency of rangers.”

When hostilities escalated, Mirza disclosed the army commandos’ helicopter incursion into Muzaffarabad. He mentions that each chopper holds roughly twenty to twenty-five commandos, which raises questions about the possibility of additional violence and casualties.

“We are in a desperate situation,” Mirza lamented, highlighting the blackout of internet services in the region, which has compounded the sense of isolation and uncertainty among residents.

In a plea for international intervention, Mirza urged the Indian government to raise the issue at the United Nations and demand answers from the Pakistani ambassador.

Situation in PoJK Worsens as Fresh Clashes Erupt Between Protesters, Authorities

May 14, 2024, 2:19 am

The situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) deteriorated further as fresh violence erupted due to clashes between protestors and authorities. Videos circulating on social media depict civilians fleeing as protests escalate.

Amid a fourth consecutive day of a wheel-jam strike in PoJK, demonstrators have blocked the Kohala-Muzaffarabad Road, disrupting traffic. Sit-ins along the route from Dhirkot to the capital have intensified.

Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq stated that the Awami Action Committee’s demands, concerning affordable food and electricity, have been addressed by the state administration. He assured full support from PM Shehbaz Sharif to resolve PoJK’s issues.

PM Anwar emphasized the government’s commitment to respecting the peaceful protests of PoJK citizens and vowed not to interfere in their struggles.

Acknowledging legal violations, PM Anwar highlighted the administration’s tolerance amid clashes, revealing that while no marchers were harmed, over 100 police officers sustained injuries.

In response to AAC’s demands, the PoJK government issued a notification granting subsidies on power and food commodities, including a reduction in flour prices and revised electricity tariffs.

AAC is expected to conclude the protest today following the government’s concessions. However, tensions escalated during clashes between protestors and police, resulting in casualties and injuries.

Vandalism of vehicles and closures of markets, trade centers, and schools were reported across PoJK. Police conducted widespread arrests, and telecommunication and internet services were suspended in several areas.

Political Activist Urges Indian govt to Summon Pakistan Ambassador After Rangers Open Fire on Protesters

May 13, 2024, 10:41 pm

Political activist Amjad Ayub Mirza from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) urged the Indian government to summon the Pakistan ambassador following Pakistan Rangers’ firing on thousands of locals in Muzaffarabad. Mirza, in a video statement, highlighted the gravity of the situation in Muzaffarabad, emphasizing that around 500,000 people protested against taxes on electricity bills, and subsidy cuts, and demanded an end to the privileges of top officials.

He called for global support and urged the international community to stand with the people of PoJK. Mirza appealed to India to raise the issue at the United Nations and to summon the Pakistan ambassador for an explanation, citing the daylight murders in PoJK and the endangerment of lives.

The incident left numerous locals injured as thousands took to the streets to voice their grievances. Mirza described the protest and subsequent clashes with the Pakistan Rangers, who initially attempted to disperse the crowd but faced resistance, leading to reinforcements.

Despite the government of PoJK announcing an agreement with the protesters, offering concessions on electricity tariffs and wheat prices, Mirza highlighted discrepancies in the official notification. He recounted the escalation of violence, including open firing by Rangers resulting in casualties, and emphasized the shutdown of internet services, exacerbating the desperate situation.

Mirza expressed concern over the deployment of army commandos via helicopters and the lack of communication due to the internet blackout, underscoring the urgency of the situation in Muzaffarabad.

PoJK: Long March Move Towards Muzaffarabad as Wheel-Jam Strike Enters Fourth Day

May 13, 2024, 2:13 pm

A prolonged wheel-jam strike in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has entered its fourth day, accompanied by a significant protest led by the Awami Action Committee (AAC) as reported by Geo News on Monday.

The AAC-led long march toward the PoJK capital, Muzaffarabad, has triggered sit-ins along the Kohala-Muzaffarabad Road, effectively halting traffic on the 40-kilometer route connecting Kohala town to Muzaffarabad. Starting from Dhirkot, the demonstrators aim to reach the capital.

The situation has escalated, prompting the deployment of Rangers and police by the PoJK government following clashes in Mirpur. These clashes resulted in the unfortunate death of a police officer and left over 70 others injured.

Key areas and sensitive points are under heavy police presence, with markets, trade centers, educational institutions, and transportation services shut down or suspended.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for a high-level meeting to address the ongoing unrest in PoJK. Expressing concern over the clashes, he emphasized the need for upholding the rule of law and urged peaceful resolution of demands through dialogue.

President Asif Ali Zardari also weighed in, urging restraint and dialogue among stakeholders to resolve issues within the legal framework. He offered condolences for the deceased officer and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

The AAC’s central leadership distanced itself from the violent incidents, with members stating that the protests were initially peaceful. However, clashes erupted as tensions escalated during the strike against electricity price hikes and taxes.

The protest has led to disruptions across PoJK, including the suspension of telecommunication and internet services in various towns. Police have conducted arrests in response to the violence, while the situation remains tense with ongoing demonstrations and strikes affecting daily life in the region.