Protesters urged international action over alleged human rights violations and the protection of civil liberties…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Members of the British Kashmiri diaspora held a protest in Bradford on Tuesday, expressing solidarity with residents of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and backing the demands of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
The demonstration took place in the city centre, where protesters carried banners and placards calling for the protection of fundamental rights, civil liberties and human dignity. Organisers said the rally was intended to draw international attention to what they described as the deteriorating human rights situation in PoJK.
Speakers at the protest alleged that security operations carried out over the past two months had resulted in civilian casualties, widespread fear and restrictions on local communities. They also claimed that women, children and elderly residents were among those affected.
Participants called for transparent and independent investigations into allegations of excessive use of force, house raids and other reported human rights violations. They urged the authorities to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law.
The demonstrators also appealed to the international community, human rights organisations and the British government to closely monitor developments in PoJK and support efforts to safeguard fundamental freedoms while encouraging a peaceful resolution to the issues raised by local communities.
According to the organisers, residents of PoJK have faced continued operations by Pakistani security forces, with several people reportedly killed or injured during recent protests. They also alleged that the region’s ongoing elections had witnessed low voter participation and irregularities.
Protesters said many people in PoJK were seeking an end to Pakistan’s control over the territory and called on the international community to play a greater role in promoting peace, ensuring accountability and protecting the lives and rights of local residents.
The Bradford demonstration is one of several protests organised by members of the Kashmiri diaspora in recent weeks, reflecting growing concern over the situation in PoJK and calls for greater international attention to developments in the region.
