New Delhi: Mass protests have erupted across several major Pakistani cities following the alleged crackdown on demonstrators in Rawalakot in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) on July 27. Demonstrators have accused the Shehbaz Sharif government and the country’s military establishment of using force to suppress demands for civil and political rights, sparking widespread unrest beyond the region.
Large scale demonstrations were reported in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Karachi, where protesters expressed solidarity with the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Participants raised slogans against the authorities and demanded accountability for the reported deaths, injuries and arrests linked to the Rawalakot incident.
In Islamabad, hundreds gathered at F 10 Markaz in support of the people of PoK. The rally called for an independent investigation into the alleged use of force in Rawalakot and urged authorities to address concerns over civil rights and governance in the region.
Lahore witnessed heightened security ahead of planned demonstrations, with a heavy police deployment around the Lahore Press Club. Several roads leading to the venue were blocked as authorities attempted to prevent large gatherings. Despite the restrictions, groups of protesters assembled at various locations carrying PoK flags and voicing support for the movement. Witnesses alleged that several participants, including women, were detained during the demonstrations.
Many protesters directed their criticism at the Punjab government, accusing it of suppressing peaceful assemblies and carrying out preventive detentions to discourage participation in the rallies. The police action led to tense confrontations between demonstrators and security personnel in parts of the city.
Rights activists claimed the crackdown reflected a broader effort to curb dissent on issues related to Kashmir, Balochistan and Palestine. They alleged that restrictions on rallies, internet disruptions and increased police presence were limiting citizens’ ability to hold peaceful demonstrations.
The nationwide protests were triggered by reports of deaths and injuries during the July 27 demonstrations in Rawalakot. Public anger has been fuelled by allegations of excessive force, internet restrictions and the arrest of activists, with growing calls for accountability and greater political and civil rights in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.
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