PDP President Mehbooba Mufti Urges Pakistan for Humanitarian Approach Amid Rising Violence
Mehbooba Mufti's Call for Compassion
On Thursday, Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), appealed to the Pakistani government to adopt a more humane approach. She expressed her deep sorrow over the escalating violence in Rawalakot, PoJK, and the harsh actions taken against peaceful protests across the Line of Control (LoC). In a post on X, Mufti condemned the oppression, stating that instead of addressing legitimate grievances, peaceful voices are met with gunfire. The images coming from across the LoC are heartbreaking, and it is tragic to witness brutal force against peaceful demonstrators.
A Plea for Dialogue Over Violence
Mufti urged the Pakistani authorities to cease firing on peaceful protesters. She emphasized that the government should choose dialogue over the use of force. Reports indicate that the demands of the protesters are valid and deserve attention. No nation strengthens itself by weakening its own people or silencing their voices through violence. The government must end oppressive actions and stop shooting at peaceful demonstrators. Kashmiris deserve respect, justice, and the right to express themselves without facing oppression.
Ongoing Protests in Rawalakot
These statements emerged as protests continued at D-Chowk in Rawalakot, PoJK, on Thursday. Allegations of gunfire and killings surfaced, with social media accounts linked to the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Action Committee (JKJAAC) accusing security forces of using lethal force against protesters. According to these accounts, demonstrators have been sitting at D-Chowk for several days, demanding a 'long march' and protesting against the brutality of security forces and targeted killings.
Allegations of Targeted Violence
A video shared on these accounts featured a protester claiming that armed personnel stationed in buildings were targeting unarmed civilians. The protester stated that most of the deceased were shot in the head, a method referred to as a 'headshot.' They expressed disbelief that such brutality could be inflicted upon them, stating that they had only seen such violence in games or fictional settings.