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Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK), Massive Protests in PoK

Massive Protests in PoK Against the Pakistan Army have erupted once again, this time over unjust taxes imposed by the Pakistan administration and the arrests of numerous activists. The situation has escalated significantly, with clashes between protesters and security forces, resulting in injuries and further tension in the region. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of the events unfolding in POK and the underlying causes fueling the protests.

Posters in PoK Demand Complete Merger with India

Posters were seen in Rawalkot which spoke about merger with India. The Awami Action Committee (AAC) began protests on May 10 against inflation, which led to a crackdown by security forces. There was a shutter-down strike. Police resorted to tear gas shelling.

 

Massive Protests in PoK Against Pakistan Army

Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is currently witnessing an unprecedented wave of protests, with masses taking to the streets to voice their discontent and demand an end to the Pakistan Army’s control over the region. These protests mark a significant turning point in the struggle for autonomy and rights within PoK. This article examines the causes, dynamics, and potential ramifications of the massive demonstrations against the Pakistan Army.

Causes of Protests in PoK

  • Heavy-handed Rule: The Pakistan Army’s authoritarian control and suppression of dissent in PoK have long been a source of discontent among the populace.
  • Marginalization and Disenfranchisement: Residents of PoK feel marginalized and disenfranchised by Islamabad’s prioritization of its own interests over those of the local population.
  • Human Rights Abuses: Allegations of human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests, disappearances, and restrictions on freedom of speech, have fueled resentment and anger.
  • Extrajudicial Killings and Disappearances: Recent incidents of extrajudicial killings and disappearances allegedly perpetrated by the Pakistan Army have intensified public outrage and galvanized opposition.
  • Lack of Accountability: The lack of accountability and transparency regarding the actions of the Pakistan Army has eroded trust in the military establishment.
  • Suppression of Dissent: The Pakistan Army’s crackdown on dissenting voices and civil society groups has further inflamed tensions and fueled resistance.
  • Economic Grievances: Economic disparities and lack of development in PoK have contributed to widespread dissatisfaction and frustration among the population.
  • Perceived Interference: Perceived interference by the Pakistan Army in the political and administrative affairs of PoK has undermined local autonomy and sovereignty.
  • Youth Unemployment: High levels of youth unemployment in PoK have added to the frustrations of the younger generation and fueled their participation in the protests.
  • Social Media Mobilization: Social media platforms have played a pivotal role in mobilizing support for the protests and amplifying the grievances of the people despite attempts at censorship by authorities.

History of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK)

In 1947, Pakistan illegally occupied parts of Jammu and Kashmir, which India refers to as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The region is made up of two parts: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), which includes parts of Kashmir and Jammu, and Gilgit Baltistan, which makes up 86% of the total area of PoK. 

Year Event
1947 The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir accedes to India.
1947-1948 First Indo-Pak war over Kashmir. Ceasefire brokered by the United Nations, leading to the Line of Control (LoC).
1949 Karachi Agreement between India and Pakistan solidifies the ceasefire line.
1965 Second Indo-Pak war, no significant territorial changes in Kashmir.
1971 Third Indo-Pak war, no significant changes in Kashmir, but East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) gains independence.
1989 Insurgency erupts in Indian-administered Kashmir.
1999 Kargil War between India and Pakistan, mostly fought in the region of Kargil in Jammu and Kashmir.
Present Pakistan-administered Kashmir (POK) remains under Pakistan’s control.

Conclusion

The massive protests rocking Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir against the Pakistan Army signify a pivotal moment in the struggle for freedom, democracy, and human rights in the region. The unprecedented display of dissent reflects the resilience and determination of the people of PoK to assert their rights and challenge oppressive rule. The outcome of these protests will not only shape the future of PoK but also have far-reaching implications for regional stability and security.

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Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK)

Is POK part of India or Pakistan?

Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) was historically part of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, which is now an important component of India as a result of the decision to sign the Instrument of Accession.

Why did Pakistan want Kashmir?

The dispute over Kashmir between Pakistan and India is a complex and deeply rooted issue. Pakistan's claim over Kashmir is primarily based on the region's Muslim majority population, arguing that it should naturally be part of Pakistan, a Muslim country.

Where do Kashmiri Pandits live now?

Many of the refugee Kashmiri Pandits have been living in abject conditions in refugee camps of Jammu.

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Piyush
Piyush
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