Pakistan Defence Minister Justifies Civilian Killings in PoJK, Labels Protesters as Enemies

New Delhi, India Jul 28, 2026 ALN: Lahore: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has defended the firing and killing of protesters in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), stating he considers them “enemies” like India. “I put the protesters of Azad Kashmir in the same category as India and consider them also as enemies like India,” Asif remarked following accusations from India regarding oppression and brutality against civilians in the region. This statement has sparked outrage and raised questions about the Pakistani government's approach to dissent and civil unrest in the region.

The backdrop to this conflict is rooted in a long-standing territorial dispute between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir region, which has led to multiple wars and ongoing military tensions since the two countries gained independence in 1947. PoJK is administered by Pakistan, while India controls a portion known as Jammu and Kashmir. The region has been a flashpoint for violence and protests, often fueled by demands for greater autonomy or independence. The historical context of this conflict is essential to understanding the current situation, as the Kashmir dispute has been a central issue in India-Pakistan relations, with both nations claiming the territory in full but controlling only parts of it.

The recent protests in PoJK began on June 5, reflecting a culmination of local grievances related to governance, human rights, and economic conditions. With the law and order situation having collapsed in PoJK, around 30 people have been killed since Monday. At least 12 civilians lost their lives and 50 others were injured in Mirpur on Tuesday after security forces opened direct fire on protesters. Eyewitnesses described disturbing scenes, with streets filled with bodies and injured civilians lying across various areas. Local residents had to carry the wounded on their shoulders due to a lack of available ambulances. This tragic loss of life underscores the severity of the protests, which have been fueled by increased frustration over the lack of basic services, economic opportunities, and political representation in the region.

This escalation in violence has been met with widespread condemnation from various human rights organizations and activists who have called for accountability and an end to the use of excessive force against civilians. The United Nations and other international bodies have previously expressed concern over human rights violations in Kashmir, urging both India and Pakistan to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful resolutions to their differences. The ongoing violence and the government's response have drawn widespread condemnation, raising concerns over human rights violations in the region. The international community has been increasingly vocal about the need for both countries to address human rights abuses and to work towards a resolution that respects the rights of the people in Kashmir.

The protests have been marked by a significant level of unrest, with demonstrators demanding justice for those killed and injured, as well as an end to military crackdowns. Since protests began, more than 80 people have been reported killed in PoJK. Witnesses have appealed to the international media to report on the dire situation, stating, “Blood of Kashmiris is on the roads.” This stark imagery underscores the gravity of the situation and the desperation of the local population seeking to be heard. The protesters' demands reflect a broader desire for autonomy, better governance, and an end to oppressive military practices that have characterized the region for decades.

In response to the escalating situation, India issued a fresh statement on Tuesday criticizing the Pakistani military for the reported firing on civilians, describing the elections in the region as a cosmetic measure. India's Ministry of External Affairs has consistently raised concerns regarding the treatment of civilians in PoJK and has accused Pakistan of failing to provide adequate governance and security to its citizens. The Indian government has called for international attention to what it describes as the oppressive regime imposed by Pakistan in the region. This back-and-forth between the two nations highlights the complexities of the Kashmir issue, where both sides accuse each other of human rights violations and failing to address the needs of the local populace.

The situation in PoJK remains tense, with protests continuing amid calls for justice and accountability. The Pakistani government, led by Defence Minister Asif's statements, appears to be taking a hardline stance against dissent, viewing protesters as adversaries rather than citizens expressing legitimate grievances. This approach raises significant questions about the future of civil liberties and human rights in the region. The framing of protesters as enemies suggests a potential crackdown on civil society and dissenting voices, which could further entrench the cycle of violence and repression.

Furthermore, the implications of these events extend beyond the immediate conflict. The ongoing violence could exacerbate tensions between India and Pakistan, potentially leading to further military confrontations. The international community is urged to take notice of the escalating violence and the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire. Diplomatic efforts may be required to address the humanitarian crisis developing in PoJK, as the cycle of violence continues to wreak havoc on the lives of ordinary people. The potential for escalation into a larger conflict remains a pressing concern, as both nations maintain significant military presence in the region.

As the situation develops, it remains crucial for observers and stakeholders to monitor the actions of both the Pakistani government and the military, as well as the reactions from the international community. The need for dialogue and peaceful resolution has never been more pressing, as the lives of countless civilians hang in the balance amid a backdrop of political strife and military engagement. The hope for a resolution that addresses the underlying issues in Kashmir remains a distant aspiration, clouded by the immediate realities of violence and repression. The lack of a clear path towards peace further complicates the situation, as entrenched positions and historical grievances continue to fuel animosity between the two nations.

In conclusion, the current events in PoJK highlight the complexities of the Kashmir conflict and the challenges faced by civilians in the region. The remarks by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reflect a broader narrative within the Pakistani state regarding dissent and opposition, framing protesters as threats rather than citizens with legitimate concerns. The international community's response will be critical in shaping the future of the region and ensuring that the voices of the people in PoJK are not silenced amid the chaos of political and military strife. The situation calls for urgent international intervention to promote dialogue, accountability, and the protection of human rights, as the ongoing violence continues to impact the lives of those living in one of the world's most contentious regions.