Thousands of British Kashmiris gathered outside the Palace of Westminster in London on Sunday to protest against alleged human rights violations and use of force by Pakistani security forces in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), demanding international intervention and accountability.Protesters expressed concern over civilian deaths and injuries in the area, alleged harassment of women, and the use of force against peaceful protesters.Carrying placards and banners, they demanded justice for those affected by the recent unrest and urged the international community to pay attention to the situation in PoK.Protesters also appealed to the United Nations and global human rights organizations to investigate developments in the region, with demands for accountability and justice echoed outside the UK Parliament.
Concern over action on protests
Speakers at the rally said that residents of PoK are protesting on issues like economic relief, affordable electricity, governance reforms and fulfillment of commitments made by the authorities.He alleged that security forces responded to peaceful demonstrations with excessive force, resulting in civilian casualties and injuries.The participants condemned the violent actions taken by Pakistani Rangers and other security agencies in various parts of PoK and demanded an independent investigation into the incidents.According to the organisers, the aim of the demonstration was to draw global attention to the grievances of PoK residents and ensure the protection of fundamental rights in the region.According to news agency ANI, the protesters also alleged that Pakistani security forces opened direct fire on the protest at Rawalkot Eidgah on Sunday, resulting in the death of two civilians and injuries to over a dozen others.
Unrest spread in PoK
The protest comes amid weeks of unrest in PoK, where residents have taken to the streets over governance issues, economic hardship, rising inflation, high electricity bills, shortage of essential commodities and the allocation of reserved legislative seats.Reports suggested that Pakistani authorities deployed paramilitary forces to break up the protests, leading to violent clashes and casualties.Several people were reportedly killed and many injured in clashes in Rawalkot and other areas, leading to demands for an independent investigation.The unrest has also drawn sharp reactions within the Islamic nation. Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif recently described the movement as “the beginning of treason” and warned protesters against disloyalty to the state, while authorities stepped up action against leaders associated with the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).Meanwhile, MQM founder Altaf Hussain called for an immediate stop to the use of force in PoK, warning that continued military action could threaten Pakistan’s own stability.According to ANI, Hussain alleged that peaceful protesters were being treated with force and expressed support for the legitimate demands of Kashmiris.The demonstration in London remained peaceful, with participants reiterating their demands for dialogue, accountability and respect for human rights in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.