Protesters Declare PoK Independent From Pakistan Amid Food Blockade and Internet Blackout

Thousands of protesters gathered in Rawalakot in Pakistan-administered Kashmir on Tuesday as demonstrations against Islamabad's administration of the region entered their 22nd day. During a public gathering at Eidgah Ground, several speakers criticised the Pakistani government and called for political change, with some participants asserting that the region should no longer be considered under Pakistan's control. Protest leaders also warned that they could seek stronger engagement with India if their demands continued to go unmet.

The protests began over concerns related to governance, rising inflation, economic hardship and what demonstrators describe as administrative neglect and state repression. Organisers claim that public frustration has intensified following restrictions imposed by the authorities, including an internet blackout that has reportedly been in place since June 5. They allege the communication restrictions have limited public awareness of the ongoing demonstrations and disrupted daily life in the region.

The movement is being led by local activists, including civil rights campaigner Sardar Aman Khan. According to protest organisers, the demonstrations gained further momentum after authorities imposed a two-week blockade on food supplies and other essential goods. Protesters argue that these measures have worsened the humanitarian and economic challenges faced by residents and have strengthened support for the campaign.

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Addressing supporters, Khan claimed that Pakistan-administered Kashmir was not part of Pakistan and said the region was more important to Pakistan than Pakistan was to the region. He further warned that if restrictions on food and essential supplies continued, residents might seek assistance from India. Khan argued that such a move could significantly alter the political dynamics surrounding the disputed region and increase pressure on Islamabad.

A separate sit-in has also been continuing near the Line of Control since June 9, with demonstrators repeating demands for political reforms and improved living conditions. Videos circulating on social media appear to show some protesters rejecting Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir and expressing opposition to military influence in the region. The authenticity and full context of the videos could not be independently verified.

Support for the movement has also emerged outside the region, with groups of demonstrators holding protests outside Pakistani diplomatic missions in several countries. Protest organisers have said they intend to continue their campaign until their political objectives concerning Muzaffarabad and the wider region are addressed. Pakistani authorities had not publicly responded to the protesters' latest statements at the time of publication.

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