Protests in PoJK: India blames Pakistan's 'decades-long exploitation'
Protests have erupted across several districts of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) over the past month, with eight major demonstrations reported on Monday (July 13, 2026). Clashes in Sudhnoti and Mathiyal Mera resulted in casualties, according to Indian agencies.
On Tuesday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told a press briefing that the protests stem from Pakistan's 'decades-long systemic exploitation, denial of fundamental rights and administrative oppression' in the region. He accused Pakistani authorities of using excessive force, including against women and children, blocking food and medicine supplies, imposing internet blackouts, and deploying lethal force, leading to fatalities.
Jaiswal said India expects the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for these alleged abuses.
The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has called for a long march to Muzaffarabad on July 15 after its ultimatum to the Pakistan government expired. The demands include release of detained leaders and activists, implementation of a 38-point charter, and an end to what they term a 'security crackdown'.
