New Delhi, Oct 3 (UNI) India today termed the violent clashes in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir as a natural consequence of Pakistan’s oppression and its plunder of the resources of the region and demanded that Islamabad be held accountable for its “horrific” human rights violations.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, answering a query on the issue at the weekly media briefing, said:
“We have seen reports of protests in several areas of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, including the brutalities by the Pakistani forces on innocent civilians.
“We believe it is the natural consequence of Pakistan’s oppressive approach and the systemic plundering of resources from these territories, which remain under forcible and illegal occupation.
“Pakistan must be made accountable for its horrific human rights violations:”
Violent clashes have broken out in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) since September 29, with more than 20 people reported killed. The regions of Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Poonch, Neelum, Bhimber and Palandri have been brought to a standstill after the strike call given by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
Demonstrators clashed with security forces demanding economic relief and political reforms. Resident say the protests are a culmination of years of neglect, inconsistent governance, and a growing sense that their voices remain unheard in the corridors of power.
