Ottawa, July 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The unrest and alleged crackdown on civilians in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have intensified criticism of Islamabad’s Kashmir policy, with a report highlighting what it described as a contradiction between Pakistan’s stated position on the region and the actions of its security forces.
The report in Canada-based Geopolitical Monitor said the response of local authorities in PoK, which function under Pakistan’s federal government and military influence, has failed to address the demands raised by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), leading to growing public anger.
The JAAC emerged in 2023 as a grassroots movement primarily focused on economic issues, including rising prices of flour and electricity. Over time, the group expanded its demands to include political concerns and calls for greater self-rule, according to the report.
The report said protests have gained momentum amid concerns over shortages of essential supplies, including food and medicines. It added that members of the Kashmiri diaspora have also intensified criticism of Pakistan’s handling of the situation, particularly over allegations of human rights violations.
JAAC leader Sardar Aman Khan reportedly warned that continued restrictions and blockades could push people in the region to consider seeking closer ties with India. The report also cited allegations that Pakistan’s military had previously encouraged unrest against Jammu and Kashmir.
India has repeatedly accused Pakistan of supporting militant networks operating across the Line of Control (LoC), a charge Islamabad has denied.
The report further stated that protests among Kashmiri diaspora communities, including in the United Kingdom, have grown following allegations of violence against civilians in PoK.
It noted that the unrest comes amid broader challenges facing Pakistan, including instability in Balochistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, raising concerns over the country’s internal security situation.
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