Protests Erupt Across Pakistan Against Indian Threats

Following a tragic attack on tourists across the contested border, hundreds of Pakistanis, including those in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), participated in demonstrations nationwide on Thursday to voice their strong opposition to recent threats from India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to aggressively pursue and bring to justice the individuals responsible for the deaths of 26 civilians in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination. He has also accused Pakistan of providing support for what he describes as “cross-border terrorism.”

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

“If India desires war, they should confront us openly,” stated Ajmal Baloch, a businessman, during a protest organized by a religious group in Lahore, near the primary border crossing with India, which drew approximately 700 participants.

India has indicated a potential suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, a crucial agreement for water distribution between the two nuclear-armed nations. However, its ability to significantly restrict the river’s flow into Pakistan remains limited.

Baloch, along with other demonstrators, vehemently condemned this threat as “unacceptable.”

“Access to water is our fundamental right, and with God’s help, we are determined to reclaim it, even if it necessitates war. We will not yield,” asserted Muhammad Owais, a 25-year-old protester.

In Muzaffarabad, the main city, nearly 300 individuals marched, displaying placards with anti-India slogans.

Shoukat Javed Mir, a prominent figure within the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in the region, declared, “If India makes the error of launching an attack, Pakistani Kashmiris will stand firm on the front lines, prepared to sacrifice our lives for Pakistan.”

In Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, around 150 individuals organized a demonstration.