Crackdown on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Protesters, India Slams Pakistan

Crackdown on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Protesters, India Slams Pakistan

New Delhi, July 31, 2026 [VoM News]: India has strongly criticized the Pakistan over its handling of protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), accusing the Pakistani establishment of using “ruthless force” against peaceful civilians and describing its response as evidence of “absolute disdain” for the people of the region.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal made these remarks during the weekly media briefing.

He said the crackdown by Pakistani security forces had resulted in the deaths of more than 40 civilians and left many others seriously injured.

“Its absolute disdain for the innocent people of PoJK was laid bare when their defence minister branded the protesting civilians as enemies,” Jaiswal said.

He also referred to remarks by Pakistan’s Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, saying the official had publicly acknowledged that the “mujahideen” once trained and armed by the Pakistani establishment to target India had now turned against the Pakistani state.

Commenting on the ongoing local body elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Jaiswal said the process reflected a “humiliating rejection” of the Pakistani establishment amid allegations of violence and electoral irregularities.

India urged the international community to closely examine the situation and hold Pakistan accountable for its actions in the region.

“Facing a violent regime, the people have requested international organisations for an independent investigation into the unlawful killings. We urge the international community to scrutinise Pakistan’s actions and hold it accountable for its atrocities,” Jaiswal said.

According to reports, more than 40 civilians have been killed and over 200 injured during the recent crackdown on protesters in PoK. Among those killed was Usman Nazir, the brother of Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) Central Committee member Umar Nazir.

The JAAC has been leading protests in the region amid local body elections, which have been marked by allegations of rigging, enforced disappearances and heavy-handed action by security forces.

Pakistan-occupied Kashmir has witnessed widespread demonstrations in recent weeks over rising living costs, alleged administrative neglect, political discrimination and reported atrocities against minority communities.