Tensions are rising across several parts of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) after the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) called for large-scale protests on Sunday. The group, which has been spearheading an anti-government agitation in the region, is demanding the immediate release of its arrested leaders and activists while challenging the authorities' crackdown.
In a video message circulating on social media, JAAC core member Sardar Aman Khan appealed to people in PoJK as well as residents of Kashmir, Ladakh, Poonch and Rajouri to support the protest scheduled for July 5.
Khan alleged that the authorities had intensified their crackdown, claiming that food and medicine supply routes had been blocked.
"In this time of hardship, we appeal to all the people, to those across the border, and especially to the people of Poonch, Mendhar, Rajouri, Jammu, the Valley, Ladakh, and Kargil. We have organized a protest on July 5, and we need the support of all of you. Certainly, you must come out, speak up for our rights, and raise your voice against this cruelty and injustice," he said.
Meanwhile, thousands of people gathered at a public meeting addressed by JAAC leader and advocate Mehrah Khawja, who accused Pakistan of exploiting the region's resources while using force against its own people instead of addressing their grievances.
Khawja also urged members of the Kashmiri diaspora in the United Kingdom to organise demonstrations on July 5 to draw international attention to the situation.
"I request that on July 5, all the Kashmiris who are overseas raise their voices. From Birmingham to London, all Kashmiris must raise their voice," he said.
In his address, Khawja also criticised the sharp rise in the prices of essential commodities in the region and condemned the authorities' decision to suspend internet services.
Meanwhile, international human rights organisations have criticised Pakistan's handling of the situation ahead of the upcoming regional elections in PoJK. Amnesty International accused the Pakistani authorities of using heavy-handed measures to suppress peaceful political dissent and violating fundamental rights, including by designating the JAAC as a "proscribed organisation."
