New Delhi: In a dramatic turn of events, residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have reached out to India for assistance amid Islamabad’s crackdown on protestors demonstrating against price hikes, as reported by media sources.
The protests initially focused on issues such as inflation, high taxes, and electricity shortages but have since transformed into a broader movement for rights and freedom across PoK.
Protestors in Muzaffarabad and other regions clashed with police and security forces, chanting “azadi (freedom)” slogans. The Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee is leading the protests, with strong support from local shopkeepers.
The demonstrations intensified after activists were arrested following calls for a strike on Friday. The protestors are calling for India’s attention to PoK, particularly Gilgit-Balochistan, and are seeking assistance in achieving independence.
India’s Home Minister, Amit Shah, recently declared that if the BJP-led NDA returns to power in the Lok Sabha elections, India will reclaim PoK. This statement follows earlier remarks by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh suggesting that people in PoK might desire union with India.
India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, reiterated this sentiment, stating that PoK has always been a part of India and blaming the situation on irresponsible governance.
The unrest in PoK has led to a significant security campaign by the authorities to suppress rallies and maintain control in the region.
