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New Delhi: The situation remains tense in Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK). The agitating people and local organizations allege that the bodies of those killed in the action of security forces during the recent protests are not being given to their families. Protestors are calling it an attempt to hide the real number of deaths, while protests are intensifying in the area.

Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) says that in recent days a large number of people have lost their lives in the clashes between security forces and protesters. According to the organization, the number of dead may exceed 53, while hundreds of people have been injured. The agitators allege that the administration is taking strict steps to control the situation and communication services have also been banned.

Life remained closed for the third day

According to Pakistani media reports, the effect of the bandh was seen in PoJK for the third consecutive day. Markets remained completely closed in many districts and normal activities were affected. There was less movement of people on the roads and protests continued in many areas.

Rawalakot became the center of the movement

Rawalakot area remains the main center of this entire movement. It is being told that after the death of a businessman last week, there was huge anger among the people. After this the protests intensified and at many places there was a situation of confrontation between the protesters and the security forces. JAAC representative Imtiaz Aslam said that the agitation will continue until the bodies of the deceased are handed over to their families and the ban imposed on the organization is not withdrawn. He has also raised the demand for an impartial investigation.

Demand for investigation and removal of force

The protesting group says there should be an independent investigation into the deaths of civilians. He has also demanded removal of additional security forces from urban areas. Despite internet services being disrupted, a large number of people are joining the protests. On the other hand, the attitude of the administration appears to be strict. Officials say that at present there are no plans to re-implement some of the concessions given earlier.

Amnesty International expressed concern

Human rights organization Amnesty International has also expressed concern over the incidents happening in PoJK. The organization alleged that excessive force was being used to control the protests. It has also been said that freedom of expression and other fundamental rights will be affected.

British MP criticized Pakistan’s action

Britain’s senior Conservative MP Bob Blackman has also reacted to the situation in PoJK. Criticizing the action being taken against the protesters, he said that Pakistan should leave the area and it should be reunited with India. Blackman said that this area has been a subject of dispute since 1947 and the current situation is causing international concern. He claimed that some British citizens have also been affected by the recent violence, making this issue important for Britain as well.

Demand to be raised in the British Parliament

The British MP has appealed to his Foreign Minister to raise this issue in Parliament and seek answers from the High Commissioner of Pakistan. He said that about 30 MPs have also written a letter in this regard, expressing concern over the situation in the area. Referring to old UN resolutions, Blackman said that necessary steps should be taken for a permanent solution in the region. Praising India’s growing global role, he said that India’s role is becoming more important in matters of regional security and stability.