Thousands of British Kashmiris protest outside the UK Parliament over PKK unrest
Thousands of British Kashmiris gathered outside the Palace of Westminster in London on Sunday to protest alleged human rights violations and use of force by Pakistani security forces in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and called for international intervention and accountability.The demonstrators raised concerns about the killing and injury of civilians, alleged harassment of women, and the use of force against peaceful demonstrators in the area.Carrying placards and placards, they demanded justice for those affected by the recent unrest and urged the international community to take note of the situation in PoK.Protesters also called on the United Nations and global human rights organizations to investigate developments in the region, with calls for accountability and justice echoing outside the UK Parliament.
Fears of suppression of protests
Speakers at the rally said PoK residents were protesting on issues such as economic relief, affordable electricity, governance reforms and fulfillment of commitments made by the authorities.They claimed that security forces responded to peaceful demonstrations with excessive force, resulting in civilian casualties and injuries.Participants condemned what they described as a violent crackdown by Pakistani Rangers and other security agencies in various parts of PoK, and demanded an independent investigation into the incidents.
According to organisers, the demonstration was aimed at drawing global attention to the grievances of the Pok people, and ensuring the protection of basic rights in the region.According to news agency ANI, the protesters also claimed that Pakistani security forces opened direct fire on a sit-in in Rawalakot Idgah on Sunday, killing two civilians and wounding more than a dozen others.
Disturbances spread across PoK
The protest comes amid weeks of unrest in PoK, where residents have taken to the streets over governance issues, economic hardship, high inflation, rising electricity bills, shortages of basic goods and the allocation of reserved legislative seats.Reports indicated that the Pakistani authorities deployed paramilitary forces to contain the protests, which led to violent clashes and casualties.Clashes in Rawalakot and other areas reportedly left several people dead and injured, sparking calls for an independent investigation.The unrest also sparked strong reactions within the Islamic nation. Recently, Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif described the unrest as “the beginning of strife” and warned demonstrators against disloyalty to the state, while authorities intensified measures against leaders associated with the Joint Awami Action Committee.Meanwhile, MQM founder Altaf Hussain called for an immediate halt to the use of force in the PKK, warning that continued military action could threaten Pakistan’s stability.According to ANI, Hussain claimed that peaceful protesters were met with force and expressed support for what he described as the legitimate demands of Kashmiris.The demonstration in London remained peaceful, with participants reiterating their calls for dialogue, accountability and respect for human rights in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
