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YB ON THE FRONTLINE
Vijay Gupta. Dated: 5/17/2024 12:03:17 PM
A DECADE OF DISCONTENT: PROTESTS IN POJK REACH A BOILING POINT
REVOLT AGAINST PAK
* Unlike earlier protests, which were often localized, the current demonstrations have seen participation from a broader cross-section of society, including students, professionals, and even some political groups traditionally aligned with Islamabad.
* The current protests are not only larger but also more organized. Social media has played a crucial role in mobilizing and coordinating protesters, making the movement more resilient and difficult to suppress.
* Recent triggers include economic hardships exacerbated by inflation and unemployment, as well as specific incidents of police brutality that have ignited public outrage. The Pakistani government's attempts to quell the protests through force have only served to inflame the situation further.
* The protests are a manifestation of deep-seated issues that have been simmering for over a decade. While previous protests have come and gone, current movement's intensity and the government's repressive response suggest a tipping point may be near.
* The roots of discontent are deep and complex. For years, the region has faced issues such as lack of political autonomy, economic deprivation, and human rights abuses by the Pakistan Army.
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VIJAY GUPTA JAMMU, MAY 16 Over the past decade, Pakistan-Occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK) has been no stranger to unrest. From minor demonstrations to significant uprisings, the region has seen a continuous cycle of protests. However, the current wave of demonstrations stands out due to its unprecedented intensity and potential for escalating violence. The roots of discontent are deep and complex. For years, the region has faced issues such as lack of political autonomy, economic deprivation, and human rights abuses by the Pakistan Army. These longstanding grievances have periodically erupted into protests, reflecting the population's frustration with the Pakistani administration's policies and actions. PoJK is currently experiencing severe unrest, with normal life severely disrupted as Pakistani security forces violently suppress ongoing protests. The region, already fraught with tension, has seen an escalation in conflict, leading to widespread disruption and a climate of fear and uncertainty. The ongoing turmoil in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir is a critical issue that demands immediate attention and action. The violent suppression of protests and the resulting disruption of normal life have created a humanitarian crisis that cannot be ignored. As the international community watches closely, it is imperative that efforts are made to de-escalate the situation, protect the rights of the local population, and work towards a sustainable and just resolution to the longstanding conflict. The people deserve to live in peace and dignity, free from fear and repression, and their voices must be heard in the pursuit of a brighter future for the region. Reports of human rights violations, including enforced disappearances, restrictions on freedom of expression, and excessive use of force by security agencies, have been recurrent in the region. These issues have been a constant source of agitation among the populace. The protests are a manifestation of deep-seated issues that have been simmering for over a decade. While previous protests have come and gone, current movement's intensity and the government's repressive response suggest a tipping point may be near. Without meaningful, dialogue and reforms addressing the root causes of discontent, the region risks descending into further violence, with significant implications for stability in the broader South Asian context. In response to the unrest, the Pakistani authorities implemented a communication blackout, cutting off mobile and internet services in an attempt to stifle the flow of information and prevent the organization of further protests. Educational institutions were shut down, adding to the sense of disruption and instability that has gripped the region. The suppression of basic freedoms and the violent crackdown on dissent have left the residents of PoJK in a state of heightened anxiety and insecurity.’