NEW DELHI: India has strongly condemned the reported use of excessive force by Pakistani authorities against protesters in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), urging the international community to hold Islamabad accountable for what it described as serious human rights violations. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the ongoing unrest in the region reflects years of political, economic, and administrative neglect under Pakistan’s control.
India Raises Concerns Over Human Rights Situation
Addressing the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed deep concern over the situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the protests are the result of decades of systemic exploitation, denial of basic rights, and continued administrative oppression in territories that India considers to be under Pakistan’s illegal occupation.
According to the MEA, reports indicate that Pakistani security forces have resorted to harsh measures to suppress demonstrations, including the use of force against civilians. India alleged that women, children, and other unarmed residents have also been affected during the crackdown.
Allegations of Police Brutality
The Indian government accused Pakistan of employing excessive police action to disperse protesters demanding their rights. The MEA claimed that essential supplies, including food and medicines, have reportedly been blocked in several areas, while internet services have also been suspended in an attempt to curb public mobilization.
India further alleged that lethal force has been used against unarmed civilians, leading to multiple deaths and injuries. New Delhi maintained that these actions represent serious violations of fundamental human rights and deserve international attention.
Appeal to the International Community
India urged global institutions and the international community not to ignore the developments unfolding in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The MEA said Pakistan should be held fully responsible for its actions and called for accountability over the reported abuses.
Officials argued that the international community should closely monitor the situation and ensure that civilian rights are protected. India’s statement reflects its longstanding position that Pakistan must address the concerns of the people living in the territories under its administration instead of using force against peaceful protesters.
Why the Protests Began
Reports indicate that the demonstrations have largely been driven by growing economic hardship and public dissatisfaction. Protesters have reportedly demanded subsidised wheat flour, affordable electricity, and relief from rising living costs.
Another major point of contention has been a controversial court ruling that upheld reserved assembly seats for migrants settled in Pakistan. The decision triggered criticism among local groups, who argued that it undermines the political rights of residents in the region.
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The latest wave of protests also intensified after Pakistan reportedly banned the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) under anti-terrorism laws. The ban has drawn criticism from several local activists, who argue that it has further restricted democratic expression in the region.
Protest Leaders Seek International Attention
The unrest has gained wider attention after videos circulating on social media purportedly showed JAAC leader Sardar Aman Khan appealing for humanitarian assistance and highlighting shortages of essential supplies. While such videos have attracted significant public interest, independent verification of their authenticity has remained limited.
The issue has also resonated among members of the Jammu and Kashmir diaspora abroad. Demonstrations have reportedly taken place in parts of the United States, including Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia, where participants urged international organisations and governments to intervene over the humanitarian situation in PoK.
India Reiterates Its Position
India has consistently maintained that Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed recurring unrest because of governance failures and denial of democratic rights. New Delhi argues that repeated protests reflect dissatisfaction among local residents over economic conditions and administrative policies.
The latest statement from the MEA signals India’s continued effort to draw international attention to developments in the region while reiterating its criticism of Pakistan’s handling of civilian protests. Officials emphasized that lasting peace and stability require respect for human rights, accountability, and protection of civilian freedoms.
As tensions continue in the region, the situation remains under close observation, with international attention likely to remain focused on the humanitarian and political developments unfolding in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
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