The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) has called for large-scale protests across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) on 5th July, asking people to come out in support of what it describes as a peaceful movement for basic rights. The group says the protests are aimed at opposing Pakistan’s crackdown, human rights violations and state terrorism.
JAAC leaders Sardar Umar Nazir Kashmiri and Sardar Aman Khan appealed to people from Muzaffarabad, Jhelum Valley, Neelum, Kashmir Valley, Jammu, Poonch, Rajouri, Ladakh, Kargil and Gilgit-Baltistan to stand together and participate in the demonstrations. They said the movement belongs to the people and should continue peacefully despite growing pressure.
Committee raises concerns over arrests and supplies
The committee says Pakistan’s authorities have stepped up arrests, enforced disappearances and intimidation of activists in an attempt to stop the protests. It also claimed that food and medicine supplies have been affected and that restrictions on movement have made daily life difficult for residents.
Referring to the arrest of JAAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir, the committee said people should not be discouraged and instead continue raising their voices through peaceful protests. It added that the movement would continue until its demands for basic rights are addressed.
International attention on the situation
Amnesty International has criticised Pakistan’s decision to declare JAAC a “proscribed organisation,” saying the move undermines peaceful political activity and freedom of association. The rights group also expressed concern over the handling of dissent ahead of the regional elections in PoJK.
On 30th of June, JAAC also criticised Pakistani authorities after an opposition delegation was stopped from entering PoJK, saying the move reflected restrictions on political activity. Several groups in the region have now announced a boycott of the 27th July local elections, saying the present situation does not allow free and fair voting.
Support beyond PoJK
The movement has also received support outside PoJK. On 2nd July, the National Anti-Terrorism Front India staged a protest outside the United Nations office, urging global bodies to take note of the reported humanitarian situation.
PoJK activist Amjad Ayub Mirza said more than 600 JAAC workers and activists have been arrested following the detention of Shaukat Nawaz Mir. He also said 5th July, traditionally observed by Pakistan as Kashmir Solidarity Day, is now being marked by many people as a day of protest against Pakistan. According to him, demonstrations are expected not only across PoJK but also in London, while activists have also raised concerns over drone surveillance of sit-in protests and restrictions on the movement of food supplies and travellers.
