India blames Pakistan for protests in PoK, seeks accountability, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• Protests continued across multiple districts of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Tuesday, ahead of a long march called by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
• India's External Affairs Ministry (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, attributed the protests to Pakistan's systemic exploitation and denial of fundamental rights in the region.
• India called upon the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for alleged human rights abuses and misdeeds in PoK.
• Clashes were reported in Sudhnoti and Mathiyal Mera, with Indian agencies reporting casualties.

Detailed Insights:

• The JAAC has called for a long march to Muzaffarabad on July 15, following the expiry of its ultimatum to the Pakistani government.
• The committee's demands include the release of detained leaders and activists, implementation of a 38-point charter, and an end to the ongoing security crackdown.
• India alleges that Pakistan has responded to the protests with excessive police brutality, including against women and children, and by blocking essential supplies and enforcing internet blackouts.
• The Indian government views the ongoing unrest as a direct consequence of Pakistan's illegal and forcible occupation of the territory.
• The situation highlights the long-standing dispute over Kashmir and the human rights concerns raised by India regarding the administration of PoK.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK): The portion of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir that is administered by Pakistan.
• Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC): A local civil society and political alliance leading protests in PoK for rights and against alleged Pakistani exploitation.
• External Affairs Ministry (MEA): The government ministry responsible for the conduct of foreign relations of India.