Khawaja Asif Defends Killing of 32 PoK Protesters, Compares Them to India as “Enemies”

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif defended action against protesters during unrest across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). He described PoK protesters opposing Islamabad as enemies like India, intensifying criticism surrounding the government’s response.

Asif made these remarks after security forces opened fire during a JAAC protest march recently. The Joint Awami Action Committee organised demonstrations demanding rights and reforms across Pakistan occupied Kashmir. The organisation said thousands marched from Rawalkot toward Muzaffarabad, opposing twelve reserved legislative assembly seats. JAAC leaders argue those seats allow Islamabad based parties to influence governments within the region. They insist only residents should elect representatives who govern Pakistan occupied Kashmir and protect interests.

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Violence Escalates as PoK Protests Intensify Amid Election Tensions

The organisation claimed security personnel opened unprovoked fire, killing fourteen activists and injuring dozens more. Usman Nazir, brother of JAAC founder Umar Nazir, reportedly died during the violent confrontation there. Pakistani authorities rejected that account and alleged protesters carried modern weapons and attacked security personnel. Officials said those alleged attacks prompted security forces to respond, but independent verification remains unavailable. The violence deepened tensions after weeks of demonstrations over economic hardship, shortages, and political grievances.

Multiple reports claim more than eighty people have died since protests began on June fifth. Earlier reports counted about forty reported deaths, including thirty four protesters and six security personnel. The crackdown also coincided with elections for the territory’s so called legislative assembly amid tensions. Clashes reportedly erupted during voting, while authorities faced allegations of ballot theft and electoral rigging. India rejected the elections, calling them an effort to legitimise Pakistan’s control over disputed territory. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said such electoral exercises cannot change India’s established position. Jaiswal also blamed Pakistan’s economic exploitation, rights restrictions, and administrative policies for continuing ongoing protests. Residents have demanded cheaper electricity, subsidised wheat flour, reliable power supplies, and stronger government accountability.

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