File photo: PoJK protest
The chief of the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), Allah Nazar Baloch, has criticised Pakistan’s policies in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), saying the growing resistance movement in the region shows that demands for rights and self-determination cannot be suppressed through force.According to the report published in The Balochistan Post, Baloch said the ongoing struggle by PoJK residents reflects their demand for fundamental rights, self-determination and freedom from what he described as Pakistan’s domination.He alleged that Islamabad has increasingly relied on repression to silence dissent but has failed to curb popular demands for political and economic rights.
Questions ‘Azad Kashmir’ narrative
The BLF chief challenged Pakistan’s portrayal of so-called “Azad Kashmir”, claiming the region enjoys freedom only in name while remaining under the control of authorities in Islamabad.He alleged that major decisions affecting the territory are taken by federal officials and bureaucrats rather than representatives elected by the Kashmiri people.Baloch also argued that Pakistan’s federal structure has been used to maintain Punjab’s dominance over smaller nationalities and regions.He further claimed that the use of force against demonstrators and political activists in Kashmir reflects the insecurity of a state seeking to retain authority over populations demanding greater autonomy and political rights.
Calls for solidarity among oppressed groups
Baloch said no nation can remain under imposed control indefinitely and described resistance against external domination as a legitimate right of oppressed peoples.He expressed support for movements advocating sovereignty and self-rule, calling them part of a broader struggle against political subjugation, according to The Balochistan Post.The BLF leader also extended solidarity to Kashmiris, Pashtuns and Sindhis, saying their political aspirations deserve international attention and support.He urged oppressed nations to stand together and support one another’s struggles, adding that the Baloch people view themselves as partners in what he described as a shared fight for freedom.
Remarks come amid unrest in PoJK
Baloch’s comments come amid continuing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following large-scale protests and a subsequent crackdown by authorities.PoJK authorities launched a search operation for four protesters and announced a bounty of Rs 1 crore for information leading to the arrest of leaders linked to the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which has been spearheading protests over economic and political issues.Pakistani security forces opened fire during the crackdown, with the report stating that 26 people were killed.Allegedly, around 14,000 troops were deployed, communication services were suspended and live ammunition was used against protesters and civilian convoys.India has also criticised the developments in PoJK. External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi had seen reports of excessive force being used against civilians and expressed hope that the international community would hold Pakistan accountable for alleged human rights abuses.
