'We're not part of Pakistan': PoK protests escalate amid food supply crisis

Anti-government protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) intensified on Tuesday as demonstrators openly challenged Islamabad's authority, declaring that the region "is not a part of Pakistan" and warned that they would seek "other roads" if the supply of essential food items continued to be disrupted.

According to a News18 report, the remarks were made during a protest gathering at Eidgah Ground in Rawalakot, where hundreds of people have been participating in an ongoing agitation over food shortages, rising prices and governance issues.

Protesters accused the Pakistani government of deliberately restricting the movement of rations and other basic necessities in an attempt to weaken the movement.

The latest statements reflect growing public anger in the region, where demonstrations have continued despite increased security measures and legal action against protest leaders.

Protesters accuse Islamabad of collective punishment

Addressing the gathering, PoK leader Sardar Aman Khan accused the authorities of collectively punishing civilians by disrupting the supply of essential goods.

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"We don't need your rations. You need us," Khan said, adding that if food supplies remained blocked, residents would be forced to explore "other roads" to ensure their survival.

The protests are being led by the Jammu Kashmir Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which was banned by Pakistani authorities under anti-terrorism laws earlier this month. Despite the ban, demonstrations have continued across several parts of the region.

Political tensions deepen

The protests have also gained momentum following recent remarks by Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who said that residents of Rawalakot and Mirpur were "not proper Kashmiris."

The comments drew strong criticism from political leaders and residents across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, further straining relations between Islamabad and sections of the local leadership.

People familiar with the developments alleged that what began as a movement focused on economic issues and governance has increasingly been treated by the authorities as a security challenge.

According to the report, activists, including Sardar Aman Khan and other members of the Awami Action Committee, have been booked under anti-terrorism laws, paving the way for arrests and a wider crackdown on those demanding lower prices, better governance and uninterrupted access to essential supplies.

Internet curbs and prolonged unrest

Reports also suggest that internet services have remained restricted across parts of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir since early June. Protesters claim the communication restrictions are intended to prevent images and videos of the demonstrations from reaching a wider audience.

The prolonged stand-off between protesters and security forces has disrupted normal life across several areas. Food shortages have been reported in affected regions. Reports say at least 22 people have died during clashes over the past two weeks.