London Rally Sees British Kashmiris Demand Justice and Rights in PoK

Thousands of British Kashmiris gathered at Parliament Square on Saturday before marching to Trafalgar Square in a major demonstration against what they described as a crackdown by Pakistani authorities in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK).

Protesters waved banners, chanted slogans calling for a "revolution," and demanded greater protection of human rights in support of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) , a grassroots movement that has been at the forefront of recent protests in the region. Demonstrators also called for action against alleged terrorism and repression in PoK, with chants of " Pakistan forces out " echoing through central London.

Participants raised concerns over reported civilian deaths, alleged harassment of women, and the use of force against peaceful protesters. Placards highlighting recent unrest in the region called for accountability and justice for those affected by the violence.

The demonstration followed similar protests held outside the Pakistani Consulate in Bradford earlier this week, reflecting growing concern among sections of the Kashmiri diaspora over developments in PoK.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has also expressed concern over the regional administration's decision to ban the JAAC under anti-terrorism legislation. The move came amid escalating tensions in PoK, where recent clashes between police and JAAC activists in Rawalakot reportedly resulted in the deaths of several civilians and police personnel.

The protest underscores the role of diaspora activism in drawing international attention to political and human rights issues in Kashmir. Anti-Pakistan demonstrations by overseas Kashmiris have intensified in recent years, particularly following periods of unrest in PoK.

India maintains that Pakistan is in illegal occupation of parts of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir and reiterates that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and inalienable parts of India.