Islamabad [Pakistan], July 30 (ANI): Students from several universities in Islamabad gathered outside the Islamabad Press Club to protest and raise concerns over the continuing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).
The protest, organized by Islami Jamiat-e-Talaba on Wednesday, drew dozens of students representing educational institutions across the federal capital.
Holding placards and chanting slogans, the demonstrators urged Pakistani authorities to address the situation in PoJK through dialogue and peaceful engagement. They called for an end to violence, the removal of restrictions, and meaningful talks with local communities to achieve a lasting and peaceful resolution.
Speaking to reporters, the protesters described the situation in PoJK as “deeply concerning” and appealed to the government to take immediate steps to ease tensions. They stressed that engaging with the people of the region through dialogue was essential to addressing longstanding grievances and restoring peace.
Hashir Abbasi, one of the protesters, said, “Protests are taking place across Pakistan, but for nearly one and a half months, no serious attention has been given to the issue of PoJK. Violence is being committed against unarmed people, while elections are merely being used as a facade. Immediate action should be taken regarding the situation in Rawalakot. We stand against oppression and support the people of Kashmir.”
Another protester, Muhammad Khalid Gujjar, said, “The oppression being faced by the people in PoJK must stop, and peace should prevail. We appeal to the authorities to end these actions and resolve the legitimate concerns of the people through dialogue and justice.”
The protest comes amid weeks of unrest across several parts of PoJK, including Rawalakot, where demonstrations and casualties have been reported over issues such as governance, political rights, economic challenges, and security measures.
Human rights organizations and local activists have alleged that excessive force was used against some protesters, while authorities have maintained that the measures were necessary to preserve law and order.
The unrest has intensified calls from political groups and civil society organizations for greater political representation, accountability, and the protection of civil liberties in the region. (ANI)
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