- India,
- 30-Jul-2026 09:16 PM IST
Senior political figures in Jammu and Kashmir have expressed their profound outrage and deep concern over the escalating violence and the use of lethal force against protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah and People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti, along with other mainstream and separatist leaders, have united in their condemnation of the situation across the Line of Control (LoC). The reports emerging from the region indicate a dire humanitarian situation where peaceful demonstrations have been met with severe military action.
Farooq Abdullah Questions Central Government's Silence
National Conference President Farooq Abdullah has taken a strong stance against the reported killings of civilians in PoK. On Wednesday, he criticized the Central Government of India for its perceived silence on the matter. Abdullah emphasized that the loss of civilian lives is a grave issue that requires immediate attention and dialogue. He raised significant questions regarding why the government has not yet spoken out against the violence being perpetrated against common citizens in the occupied territory. His appeal calls for an urgent discussion and a formal response to the tragic events unfolding across the border.
Mehbooba Mufti Calls for Dialogue and Humanity
PDP President Mehbooba Mufti has also expressed her deep sorrow over the prevailing conditions in PoK. Describing the visual evidence coming from the region as heart-wrenching, she noted that seeing brutal force used against peaceful protesters is deeply saddening. Mufti urged the Pakistan government to adopt a more humane approach toward its citizens. She stressed that the path of dialogue should always be preferred over the use of force. According to her, the images of distress from various parts of Kashmir across the LoC are a cause for international concern, and the grievances of the people must be addressed through peaceful means rather than suppression.
Reports of High Casualties and Military Action
The situation in PoK has turned particularly violent, with reports suggesting that the Pakistani army has taken the lives of 30 people who were part of the protest movements. This high number of casualties has sparked a wave of condemnation across the political spectrum in Jammu and Kashmir. Leaders have pointed out that such a high death toll indicates a disproportionate use of force against individuals who were merely exercising their right to protest. The involvement of the military in handling civil demonstrations has been highlighted as a major point of contention and a violation of basic human rights.
Omar Abdullah Urges Protection of Innocent Civilians
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has also weighed in on the disturbing reports coming from PoK. He described the news of the brutal use of force against protesters as highly worrying, while in his statement, he emphasized that the targeting of innocent civilians must come to an end immediately. He expressed his hope for the restoration of peace in the region, asserting that violence isn't a solution to the problems faced by the populace. His remarks reflect a broader consensus among the leadership that the safety of non-combatants should be the highest priority for any administration.
Demands for Justice and the Right to Protest
Leaders from all major political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have collectively asserted that the people of PoK are entitled to respect, justice, and the fundamental right to peaceful protest, while they've demanded that the Pakistan government cease its repressive actions and stop trying to silence the voices of the people through force. The political leadership in J&K maintains that the legitimate grievances of the citizens in PoK must be resolved through constructive engagement. They argue that suppression only leads to further instability and that the only way forward is to acknowledge and address the concerns of the people in a fair and just manner.
