Occupied Kashmir Protests: A Sinking Titanic or a Fight for Identity?

Jamil Maqsood, speaking at the 60th UNHRC session, likened Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) to a sinking Titanic, emphasizing that its citizens are unwilling to continue aboard. Corruption, nepotism, and poor governance have driven residents to violent protests, according to Maqsood, president of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the United Kashmir People's National Party.

Protests have erupted in PoJK as people express their anger over a lack of basic services and economic opportunities. Violent clashes with security forces have resulted in casualties, sparking a severe response from the government, including a communications blackout and a ministerial committee visit to Muzaffarabad.

Maqsood criticized the Pakistani government's historical oppression across multiple regions, including Balochistan and Sindh. He argues that PoJK residents wish to reunite with Jammu and Kashmir and resist Pakistan's suppression. He also highlighted growing concerns about militancy in PoJK, citing recent evidence of terrorist activities.

(With inputs from agencies.)