PoJK: Human rights activist decry crackdown on protests and freedoms
Amjad Ayub Mirza Condemns Ban on Protests in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir
In Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), human rights activist Amjad Ayub Mirza has criticized a new presidential ordinance that bans political rallies, gatherings, and protests. This ordinance grants the Deputy Commissioner of PoJK the power to impose sentences of up to three years for violations and designate areas as "Red Zones," restricting access.
Protests have erupted across PoJK, with a significant demonstration on November 19 in Rawalakot turning violent as police used tear gas on peaceful protesters. Hundreds, including leaders from various organizations, were arrested. The Joint Awami Action Committee, which organized the protests, has called for an indefinite general strike starting December 5. Their demands include the release of political prisoners and compensation for those affected by police violence.
Dr. Mirza highlighted the denial of basic human rights in PoJK, warning of potential widespread protests. The PoJK High Court has supported the ordinance, and Pakistani authorities have responded with force, leading to numerous arrests. Human rights groups are urging international intervention to protect the rights of PoJK residents.
Javed Beigh, a political activist, stressed the importance of freedom of speech and peaceful assembly, calling for global support for PoJK's people. The international community is urged to address the human rights violations and support the region's civilians in their quest for justice and rights restoration.
Doubts Revealed
Amjad Ayub Mirza
Amjad Ayub Mirza is a human rights activist. Human rights activists are people who work to protect and promote the basic rights and freedoms that all humans should have.
Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK)
Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, or PoJK, is a region that is part of the larger area of Jammu and Kashmir. It is currently administered by Pakistan, but India also claims it as part of its territory.
Ordinance
An ordinance is a rule or law made by a government authority. It is like a special order that people in a certain area have to follow.
Deputy Commissioner
A Deputy Commissioner is an important government official in charge of a district. They have the power to enforce laws and make decisions for the area they oversee.
Red Zones
Red Zones are areas where special rules apply, often for security reasons. In these zones, certain activities like protests might be restricted or banned.
Tear gas
Tear gas is a chemical used by police to control crowds. It causes people to cry and feel uncomfortable, making it hard for them to stay in one place.
Joint Awami Action Committee
The Joint Awami Action Committee is a group of people working together to achieve common goals. In this context, they are demanding the release of political prisoners and compensation for victims of police violence.
Political prisoners
Political prisoners are people who are jailed because of their political beliefs or actions. They are often arrested for protesting or speaking against the government.
Compensation
Compensation is money or something else given to someone to make up for a loss or injury. In this case, it refers to helping those who were hurt by police violence.
International intervention
International intervention means when countries or organizations from around the world get involved in a situation. They might do this to help solve problems or protect people's rights.
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