Pakistan crackdown on PoJK protesters who are demanding political rights

Story by  ANI | Posted by  Aasha Khosa | Date 09-06-2026
A video grab of the protest at Muzaffaraaabad
A video grab of the protest at Muzaffaraaabad

 

New Delhi

In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s (PoJK) Muzaffarabad, at least two people killed and 22 injured after Pakistan’s security forces today opened fire on residents protesting against the Government, demanding for basic rights on Monday.

Earlier, the POJK expatriates in Europe alleged so far 22 persons had died in the protests and brutal crackdown by the Pakistani security forces.

The Public Action Committee has raised a 38-point charter of demands for structural reforms, including the abolition of 12 legislative seats in the PoK assembly reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan. Protests have also been reported in Dadyal and other areas of the PoJK.

Pakistan   Government had shut down Internet in Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), banned Kashmiri rights organization as Protests Erupt in Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzafrabad ahead of 9 June march. Protests intensify in POJK against Pakistan’s occupation. Pakistan army has deployed 15,000–20,000 paramilitary troops to crush their voice.

The government of Pakistan has since sought to ban the Public Action Committee for its “terrorist” links.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf unit in PoJK amplified these protests online, issuing a series of statements accusing the government of incompetence and repression. Internet and mobile phone services remained suspended in PoJK. 

People in PoJK continue to suffer massive human, economic, and psychological damage as the region remains one of the most severely impacted areas by terrorism.

Political activist from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Amjad Ayub Mirza, has appealed to the United Nations for urgent intervention amid what he described as a worsening humanitarian and political crisis in PoJK.

In a video statement, Amjad Ayub Mirza raised alarm over reports of an alleged violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrators in Rawalakot who were protesting for economic, social, and civil rights.

Citing information received from local sources, Amjad Ayub Mirza claimed that security operations involved personnel from the Pakistani Rangers, Punjab Police, and military units. According to the activist, the operations resulted in civilian casualties, including deaths and injuries among unarmed protesters.

He further alleged that live ammunition had been used against demonstrators, creating an atmosphere of fear and repression across the region. "The people of PoJK have the right to peaceful assembly. They have the right to raise their voices without fear of bullets, intimidation, or repression," Amjad Ayub Mirza stated.

The activist criticised Pakistan's handling of the unrest, arguing that the large-scale deployment of security forces has heightened tensions rather than addressing public grievances. He stated that the reported actions raised serious concerns about the protection of civilians and adherence to fundamental human rights standards.

Amjad Ayub Mirza also highlighted allegations of arbitrary detentions, intimidation, and excessive use of force, urging the international community to independently verify the situation on the ground.

In his appeal, he called on the United Nations to immediately dispatch an independent fact-finding mission to investigate the allegations, ensure protection for civilians, and facilitate access for international journalists, humanitarian observers, and human rights organisations.

He also urged diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and encourage dialogue between authorities and protesters.

READ MOREPOJK people are no longer ready to put up with Pak's delusionary Kashmir policy

Amjad Ayub Mirza said the consequences could be severe if the reports emerging from the region proved accurate. "The world must not remain silent while civilians plead for protection," he stated.