London: Human rights activist Dr Amjad Ayub Mirza has appealed to the Government of India to take immediate notice of the situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), claiming that conditions in the region are rapidly deteriorating amid ongoing protests and growing public unrest.
In a video statement, Mirza urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the issue at the highest political level. He called for an emergency meeting involving the Union Cabinet, opposition leaders, political parties and relevant ministries to assess the situation and explore measures to prevent further escalation.
According to Mirza, authorities are preparing to intensify action against individuals leading the protest movement in PoJK. He alleged that women, who have participated in large numbers in demonstrations across the region, are increasingly being targeted, with reports of arrests and crackdowns emerging from several areas.
Mirza claimed that thousands of women have joined sit-ins and protest marches in major towns and cities, reflecting widespread public dissatisfaction. Reports of action against female protesters, he said, have heightened fears among local communities and raised concerns about the protection of civil liberties.
The activist urged India to utilise all available diplomatic and humanitarian avenues to help safeguard civilians and draw international attention to developments in the region. He also called on residents of PoJK to support efforts aimed at securing greater protection for those involved in the protests.
His appeal comes amid continuing demonstrations in Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad and other parts of PoJK, where protesters have voiced opposition to government policies, economic hardships and administrative decisions. Demonstrators have accused authorities of using force to suppress dissent.
Recent reports from Rawalakot indicate clashes between security personnel and protesters, with claims of casualties and injuries further fuelling tensions. As unrest continues, concerns are growing over the potential for further instability across the region.
