India Condemns Pakistan Over Deadly Crackdown in PoK Protests
New Delhi / Muzaffarabad – October 3, 2025 — India has strongly denounced Pakistan following reports of widespread violence and human rights abuses during mass protests in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) accused Islamabad of unleashing “horrific human rights violations” on civilians as unrest escalates across the region, leaving multiple people dead and communication lines severed.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the violent crackdown was the “direct result of Pakistan’s oppressive policies and exploitation of PoK ’s resources.” He added that Pakistan’s governance has left the territory “politically manipulated and economically plundered.”
Roots of the Uprising
The current wave of protests is being spearheaded by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which has mobilized thousands in Muzaffarabad and other districts. While earlier demonstrations in 2023 focused on food and electricity shortages, today’s movement has evolved into a broad anti-establishment struggle.
The JAAC has presented a 38-point charter of demands, including:
- Economic relief through subsidized wheat and lower electricity tariffs, citing the region’s own hydropower resources like the Mangla Dam.
- End to elite privileges, targeting perks, high salaries, and government vehicles for officials.
- Political reforms, including abolishing 12 reserved assembly seats for Kashmiri refugees in Pakistan, which protesters claim allow federal interference in local governance.
Security Crackdown and Civilian Casualties
The protests, which included a major “long march” toward Muzaffarabad, have been met with harsh retaliation by security forces. Witnesses and local leaders accuse Pakistani forces of using tear gas, baton charges, and even live ammunition.
While organizers claim up to a dozen civilian deaths, the government acknowledges casualties among both protesters and police. Schools remain closed, and a communications blackout has further cut the region off from external scrutiny.
Despite offering dialogue, Pakistan’s federal authorities have simultaneously blamed “foreign instigation” an indirect reference to India for fueling the unrest.
Historic Shift in PoK Politics
Observers say these protests mark a turning point in PoK ’s political climate. For the first time in decades, demonstrators are openly challenging the Pakistani military’s dominance and rejecting the façade of “Azad Kashmir.” Protest slogans and banners directly accuse Islamabad of long-term neglect and exploitation.
India’s statement comes as international organizations, including Amnesty International, call on Pakistan to restore communications and respect peaceful assembly. New Delhi reiterated that PoK is an integral part of India under Pakistan’s illegal occupation and urged the global community to hold Islamabad accountable.
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