PoK Leader Seeks India's Help as Protests Intensify Over Economic Restrictions
Amid ongoing unrest in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, Sardar Aman Khan, leader of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), has called on India to provide humanitarian assistance and open the Line of Control (LoC) for civilians. In a widely circulated video from a June 30 rally, Khan claimed that Pakistani authorities have imposed an economic blockade following a crackdown on protesters, leading to shortages of food and medicine.
"We need India's help. There is a shortage of rations... and we need your help," Khan said. He urged New Delhi to send aid and allow residents to cross into Indian-administered Kashmir if conditions worsen.
The rally, held at Rawalakot's Eidgah Ground, saw participants chanting slogans such as "PoK is not part of Pakistan" and "We want freedom." Khan asked the crowd whether they should march toward the LoC, drawing repeated affirmations. He warned that if authorities respond with bullets, "we also have other paths."
The video's authenticity could not be independently verified. The protests, which began last month, have escalated after the Pakistani government banned the JAAC on June 5, designating the grassroots group as a "terrorist" organisation. Local residents accuse Islamabad of suppressing dissent and maintaining control through mainstream political parties.
A report by the International Centre for Peace Studies noted that Pakistan's ruling party has consistently won elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, suggesting a pattern of political interference. Experts describe the regional administration as "toothless" and subservient to Islamabad.
The situation remains tense, with reports of casualties on both sides. Calls for independence have grown louder, reflecting deep dissatisfaction with Pakistani governance. India has not yet officially responded to the request for aid.
