Thousands rally in Rawalakot as demonstrators accuse Islamabad of economic neglect, repression and abandoning the people of PoK
Pakistan is facing mounting unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), where a prolonged public uprising against Islamabad’s rule has gathered momentum, exposing growing anger over economic hardship, administrative neglect and state repression. Protesters have openly declared that they do not consider themselves part of Pakistan and have warned they could seek assistance from India if the crisis continues.
The agitation entered its 22nd day with thousands gathering at Eidgah Ground in Rawalakot, where demonstrators accused Pakistan of abandoning the region while using force to suppress dissent. Protest leaders alleged that Islamabad’s policies have pushed the region into an economic and humanitarian crisis.
*RAWALAKOT ROARS:* “PoJK Is Not Part of Pakistan” Thousands defy Islamabad. Sit-in at LoC since 9 June. Aman Khan: “If Pakistan blocks food, PoK’s borders could open. Islamabad will beg PoK to stay.” @CMShehbaz oppression has consequences.
@UN @POTUS @narendramodi… pic.twitter.com/GhI0XWjwDk— 🇮🇳Bhartiyavibhooti🇮🇳 (@Bhartiyavibhoti) June 30, 2026
Protesters reject Islamabad’s authority
Addressing the gathering, protest leader and human rights activist Sardar Aman Khan declared that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is “not a part of Pakistan” and asserted that Islamabad needs the region more than its people need Pakistan.
Demonstrators warned that if Pakistan continues to block essential supplies, they would explore seeking assistance from India.
Videos released by protesters also carried strong criticism of Pakistan’s military leadership, with participants stating that they no longer recognise Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir‘s authority and would not accept “dictatorial rule.”
Economic crisis, blockade fuel public anger
According to protest organisers, the movement began over soaring prices, worsening economic conditions, administrative neglect and restrictions imposed by Pakistani authorities.
The protesters alleged that Islamabad attempted to crush the agitation by suspending internet services from June 5 and blocking the supply of food and essential commodities to the region for nearly two weeks, further aggravating public resentment.
Since June 9, demonstrators have also been staging a sit-in near the Line of Control, vowing to continue their movement until their demands are addressed.
Pakistan’s grip weakens as massive PoK protests intensify, demonstrators threaten to seek India’s help
The movement has also received backing from members of the Kashmiri diaspora, with demonstrations reportedly taking place outside Pakistani embassies and diplomatic missions in several countries.
Protest organisers have said the agitation will continue across multiple parts of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Muzaffarabad, until their political objectives are achieved.
The continuing unrest presents a significant challenge for Pakistan, which has frequently projected normalcy in the region but now faces sustained public demonstrations over governance, economic conditions and alleged suppression of civil liberties.
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