PoK unrest deepens (Img: Internet)
Rawalakot: Anti-government protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) gathered momentum on Tuesday as demonstrators in Rawalakot publicly questioned Islamabad's authority over the region and accused the Pakistani government of using restrictions on essential supplies to suppress the ongoing agitation.
Speaking at a protest gathering at Eidgah Ground in Rawalakot, several demonstrators alleged that the disruption in the movement of food and other basic necessities had worsened the humanitarian situation and fuelled public resentment.
During the demonstration, protest leader Sardar Aman Khan criticised the reported restrictions on ration supplies, claiming residents were being collectively punished. He warned that if the blockade continued, people would be forced to explore "other roads" to secure essential supplies.
The remarks reflected growing anger among sections of the local population over the handling of the protests and the alleged restrictions imposed by authorities.
The protests come amid an ongoing movement led by the Jammu Kashmir Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which was banned by Pakistani authorities under anti-terrorism laws earlier this month.
The agitation has also intensified following recent remarks by Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who reportedly described residents of Rawalakot and Mirpur as "not proper Kashmiris." The statement drew criticism from political groups and protest leaders across the region.
According to reports, internet services have remained restricted in parts of PoK since early June. Protesters allege the communication curbs are aimed at preventing information and visuals of the demonstrations from reaching the outside world.
The prolonged standoff between protesters and security forces has disrupted daily life across parts of the region, with reports of food shortages and casualties during clashes. The unrest has further highlighted growing tensions over governance, economic conditions and access to essential services in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
