JAMMU, Jun 19: Parivartan, along with members of the PoJK Displaced Persons community, social activists, members of MJR-1947, and concerned citizens of Jammu & Kashmir, organized a peaceful solidarity gathering near the statue of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji at Tawi Bridge, Jammu, to express concern over the reported human rights situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK).
Addressing the gathering, Romi Sharma, Chairperson of Parivartan, renowned actor, author, and social activist, expressed deep concern over reports of violence, unrest, and the hardships being faced by people in PoJK.
She stated that it is distressing to witness youth, women, and children suffering while seeking basic rights, dignity, and better living conditions. She further alleged that several people participating in peaceful protests for their fundamental rights had lost their lives due to actions of the Pakistan Army and called for accountability and justice.
She emphasized that human rights are universal and that every individual deserves justice, freedom, and respect, irrespective of geographical boundaries.
She urged the international community and global human rights organizations to take serious note of the situation and ensure that the concerns and aspirations of the people of PoJK are not ignored.
Om Prakash Khajuria, Spokesperson of MJR-1947, stated that the voices of people demanding democratic and human rights should be heard and respected. He urged democratic nations and international institutions to stand in support of those seeking justice, dignity, and fundamental freedoms.
Speaking on the occasion, renowned educationist Vikas Bhargav strongly condemned the reported atrocities and suppression faced by the people of PoJK. He stated that restrictions on peaceful expression, intimidation, and hardships being faced by ordinary citizens raise serious humanitarian concerns. He also alleged that food supplies and essential provisions for protesters had been blocked, further aggravating the difficulties faced by those participating in peaceful demonstrations.
Col. R.K. Sharma (Retd.) stated that human rights organizations should come forward to protect innocent people in PoJK who are allegedly facing atrocities. He emphasized the need for greater international attention and humanitarian support to ensure the protection of the rights, safety, and dignity of the affected population. He further alleged that the Pakistani establishment is suppressing the legitimate demands of the people of PoJK.
Speaking to the media, Pahari activist Syed Shafait expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in PoJK and strongly criticized the policies of the Pakistan administration under Army Chief Asim Munir.
He alleged that the people of PoJK continue to face severe hardships and suppression and called for greater international attention to their grievances. Syed Shafait further appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to take all possible constitutional and diplomatic measures for the welfare and rights of the people of PoJK while reiterating his support for the vision of Akhand Bharat.
Prominent social activist Shashikant Khajuria, Col Ravinder Sharma Retd along with Dileep Jassoria, Varun Sharma, and Pankaj Sharma, also expressed solidarity with the people of PoJK and appealed for peace, justice, and the protection of human rights.
They called upon international human rights bodies, civil society organizations, and democratic institutions across the world to pay attention to the plight of the affected people and support efforts aimed at ensuring their welfare, safety, and dignity.
The gathering concluded with a collective appeal for the peaceful resolution of issues through dialogue, respect for human rights, and adherence to democratic values.