Pakistan Defence Minister Compares PoK Protesters with India Amid Crackdown Controversy

Islamabad — Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has defended the government’s action against protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), triggering controversy after describing demonstrators as “enemies like India.”

His remarks came amid escalating unrest in the region, where reports claimed that dozens of people were killed and several others injured during a crackdown on protesters participating in a long march organised by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).

In a video circulating on social media platform X, Asif said, “I put them (protesters) in the same category as India and consider them also as enemies like India.”

The statement followed allegations that Pakistani security forces opened fire on civilians in areas including Mirpur and Rawalakot. Several videos shared online appeared to show scenes of violence, with bodies lying on roads and people fleeing amid clashes.

The protests were organised by locals demanding action against alleged human rights violations and other grievances in PoK. JAAC claimed that security forces used excessive force against demonstrators and accused authorities of targeting members of the Mirpur Awami Action Committee.

In a post on X, JAAC alleged that several people were killed during firing in Mirpur and that the situation remained tense in Rawalakot, where it accused forces of using shelling and gunfire against peaceful protesters.

“The worst firing continues on the daily life caravan. We are picking up the bodies, but you will not be able to endure this hatred that you are sowing today,” JAAC said in another social media post.

The group also claimed that at least 20 deaths had been confirmed at one stage, with more details expected after communication channels were restored. Other reports cited a higher death toll, with over 40 people allegedly killed and hundreds injured during the unrest.

The long march was launched after talks between JAAC representatives and Pakistani authorities reportedly failed to reach a resolution, leading to renewed protests across PoK.

The developments have intensified criticism of Islamabad’s handling of demonstrations in the region, with rights groups and activists raising concerns over the use of force against civilians.

With inputs from IANS