Protests Erupt Across Pakistan and AJK in Response to Indian Threats

Following a devastating attack on tourists across the contested border, hundreds of Pakistanis participated in demonstrations throughout the nation on Thursday, including in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), to voice their anger against perceived Indian threats.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to hunt down and penalize the perpetrators responsible for the deaths of 26 civilians in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination. He accused Pakistan of providing support for “cross-border terrorism”.

The assault in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) represents the deadliest incident in twenty-five years, notably targeting civilians instead of Indian security personnel.

“If India desires war, then they should openly step forward,” Ajmal Baloch, a businessman, declared to AFP during a protest organized by a religious group, attended by roughly 700 individuals in Lahore, home to the primary border crossing with India.

India has indicated a potential suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, a crucial agreement for water sharing between the two nuclear-armed countries, despite limited means to effectively restrict the river’s downstream flow into Pakistan.

Protesters, including Baloch, vehemently condemned this threat as “unacceptable”.

“Water constitutes our fundamental right, and with God’s help, we are resolved to reclaim it, even if it necessitates engaging in conflict. We shall remain steadfast,” asserted Muhammad Owais, aged 25.

In Muzaffarabad, approximately 300 individuals marched, displaying placards adorned with anti-India slogans.

Shoukat Javed Mir, a prominent figure within the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in the region, stated, “Should India make the error of launching an assault, the Pakistani Kashmiris shall stand on the front lines, prepared to sacrifice our lives for Pakistan.”

In Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, roughly 150 individuals organized a demonstration.