Pakistan crackdown in PoK draws protests on UK streets
Members of the British Kashmiri diaspora held a protest in Bradford to condemn the recent crackdown by Pakistani authorities in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Protesters demanded accountability for alleged human rights violations, including civilian casualties and the suppression of civil liberties during the region's assembly elections.
Why it matters
The protest highlights growing international scrutiny of Pakistan's governance in the disputed region and the potential for regional instability to influence diaspora politics in the UK.
Unrest continues in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as a crackdown by Pakistani authorities has triggered growing anger among residents. On Wednesday, members of the British Kashmiri diaspora held a protest in UK's Bradford, expressing solidarity with the people of PoJK and backing the demands of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).The protest came as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is in the middle of its so-called assembly elections, while Islamabad has intensified security operations in the region.Protesters gathered in Bradford city centre carrying banners and placards, demanding the protection of fundamental rights, civil liberties and human dignity. Organisers said the rally aimed to draw international attention as the worsening human rights situation in PoJK.Speakers at the protest claimed that security operations over the past two months had led to civilian deaths, created fear among residents and disrupted daily life.
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