British Kashmiris Protest Deadly Crackdown in PoJK Amid UN Calls for Probe

British Kashmiris have launched fresh protests outside Pakistan's consulates in Birmingham and Bradford, condemning alleged killings and widespread human rights abuses by Pakistani security forces in Rawalakot, Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). These demonstrations follow reports of dozens of civilian deaths and injuries this week, as forces allegedly opened fire on peaceful protesters marching from Rawalakot towards Muzaffarabad, the regional capital. The unrest intensified after talks between local civil rights groups and authorities collapsed, sparking international alarm. The protests are linked to a months-long civil rights movement led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in PoJK, initially demanding fair electricity prices, improved governance, and the abolition of controversial legislative seats reserved for refugees, which critics say undermine local representation. Pakistan's government has responded by banning JAAC under anti-terrorism laws, arresting leaders, imposing communication blackouts, and reportedly using lethal force, escalating tensions significantly ahead of ongoing regional elections. India's Ministry of External Affairs has called these elections a 'sham' to hide Islamabad's 'illegal occupation and grave human rights violations' in the region. The United Nations Human Rights Office has voiced serious concern, calling for calm, restraint, and independent investigations into the reported deaths and rights abuses. British Labour MP Naz Shah and Amnesty International have also demanded accountability. With Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif ruling out dialogue and equating protesters with 'enemies of Pakistan,' the situation remains highly volatile, with calls for international intervention growing louder amidst reports of over 30 civilians killed in the recent crackdown.