Islamabad: Widespread condemnation followed after Islamabad police stormed the National Press Club and allegedly assaulted journalists, as protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) entered their fifth consecutive day, fueling public anger across the region. Reports indicate that members of the PoJK Lawyers Community were holding a peaceful protest at the Press Club when police intervened.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) condemned the raid on social media, stating, “HRCP strongly condemns the raid on the National Press Club and assault on journalists by Islamabad police. We demand an immediate inquiry and accountability for those responsible.”
Journalist Zahid Gishkori questioned how a media space became a target, writing, “Police’s brutal attack on Islamabad Press Club raises serious questions about how a place meant for journalists’ safety has turned unsafe for those trying to raise their voices. Media bodies must stand united.”
Former Pakistan envoy to the UN, Maleeha Lodhi, called the incident “deplorable” and demanded accountability, posting, “Who authorized this? Islamabad police storm National Press Club.”
Earlier, protests in Muzaffarabad, PoJK’s capital, drew thousands for the funeral of three young men allegedly killed by Pakistani forces. Social media user Nadeem noted, “Thousands attended the funeral prayers of three young men martyred by Pakistani forces.” He further accused authorities of double standards, adding, “The Jammu Kashmir Joint People’s Action Committee’s march is peaceful, yet Pakistani forces are committing atrocities against unarmed citizens.”
The protests, led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), revolve around a 38-point charter of demands, including political reforms, subsidised wheat flour, lower electricity tariffs, free education and healthcare, and an end to government perks.
Public anger has intensified after the government abolished 12 legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees in Pakistan. Shops, markets, and transport services have remained closed across PoJK, with large caravans breaking through blockades to reach Muzaffarabad despite an indefinite lockdown and internet blackout.
Prominent voices have amplified the unrest online. PTI leader Syeda Zahr wrote, “A sea of people from Rawalakot is heading toward Muzaffarabad.” Chaudhry Muddasar Raza Machhiana, coordinator to former Prime Minister Imran Khan, praised demonstrators, saying, “Salam to the people of PoJK who know how to claim their rights.”
Neelum Valley Public Action Committee leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir accused the government of using force to suppress citizens, stating in a viral video, “This government has turned into a demon… They want to silence us by shutting down the media, deploying forces, and firing on us.”
Violent clashes over the past three days have reportedly claimed more than half a dozen lives and left several seriously injured. In Dudyal, Mirpur, the Action Committee announced that a protester’s body would not be buried until authorities meet their demands.
Despite security forces deployed across PoJK to block protest marches, the demonstrations show no sign of abating, with protesters vowing to continue until their demands are fulfilled.
