JAMMU, Jun 25: Senior BJP leader and former Minister Bali Bhagat on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Pakistan over the worsening humanitarian situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), saying Islamabad’s alleged restrictions on essential supplies have exposed its “inhuman and oppressive governance model”.
His remarks came amid reports that residents across PoK are facing severe shortages of food, fuel and medicines, with allegations that supply chains have been disrupted during ongoing protests led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Reports from international and regional media have highlighted shutdowns, road blockades, and claims of restricted movement of essential goods, although Pakistani authorities have denied imposing any deliberate blockade.
Bali Bhagat said the situation has “exposed the reality of Pakistan’s rule in PoK”. “Pakistan should feel ashamed that it is restricting food, fuel and life-saving medicines for innocent civilians. This is not governance — this is oppression. The world is watching how Pakistan is treating the people of PoK,” Bhagat said.
He alleged that Islamabad has responded to public protests not with dialogue but with pressure tactics that have worsened daily life for ordinary citizens.
“Instead of addressing the genuine demands of the people, Pakistan has allegedly chosen to choke supplies and create hardship. This clearly shows its anti-people mindset,” he added.
The BJP leader said the ongoing unrest reflects deep-rooted anger among the people of PoK over decades of political neglect, lack of development, and denial of rights.
“The situation in PoK is not accidental — it is the result of long years of injustice and exploitation. People are now standing up against this system,” Bhagat said.
He further claimed that the developments indicate a “historic turning point” for the region. “PoK is now on a path of awakening. The voices coming from there show that people are demanding freedom from Pakistan’s control. This movement cannot be suppressed forever,” he said.
Calling for a strong international response, Bhagat urged global institutions to take note of the situation. “The international community must see how basic human rights are being violated. Blocking food and medicines is unacceptable anywhere in the world,” he said.
Reiterating India’s position, Bhagat said PoK is an integral part of India and expressed confidence about its future. “PoK belongs to India historically, geographically and morally. The current unrest shows that Pakistan’s illegal occupation is weakening. Soon, PoK will move towards independence from Pakistan’s control and will eventually reunite with India,” he said.
He also asserted that Pakistan’s policies have backfired and will further accelerate anti-government sentiment in the region. “The more Pakistan tries to suppress the people, the stronger their resistance becomes. This is a clear signal that change is inevitable,” Bhagat added.
The statement comes as reports continue to emerge from PoK of shortages, shutdowns, and protests, with residents and political groups accusing authorities of restricting essential supplies, while Pakistan maintains that no official blockade has been imposed.