Kashmiri Diaspora Holds Anti-Pakistan Demonstration in Bradford Over PoJK Unrest

Members of the British Kashmiri community held a protest in Bradford on August 5, expressing support for residents of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and backing the demands raised by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). The protesters gathered in the city centre with banners and posters, highlighting concerns over civil rights, personal freedoms and the protection of human dignity. Organisers said the demonstration was intended to bring global attention to what they described as a worsening human rights situation in PoJK.

Addressing the gathering, speakers alleged that security operations conducted in the region over the last two months had led to civilian deaths, growing uncertainty and restrictions on everyday life. They claimed that vulnerable groups, including women, children and elderly people, had also been affected by the developments.

The demonstrators demanded independent and transparent investigations into allegations of excessive force, searches of residential areas and other reported rights violations. They called for accountability, legal safeguards and respect for the rule of law. The protesters also appealed to international organisations, rights groups and the UK government to closely follow the situation in PoJK and encourage measures aimed at protecting fundamental freedoms and finding a peaceful solution to the concerns raised by local communities.

According to protest organisers, residents in PoJK have faced continued security actions by Pakistani forces, with several people allegedly killed or injured during clashes and firing incidents involving protesters in recent months. They further claimed that recent elections in the region saw limited public participation and allegations of irregularities.

The demonstrators said many people in PoJK are seeking greater political rights and an end to what they described as Pakistan’s control over the territory. They urged the international community to take a more active role in promoting peace, accountability and the protection of residents’ rights.