Kotli, Azad Kashmir (AJK), Pakistan-administered Kashmir: Zarish Kashif, a young girl from Kotli, Azad Jammu Kashmir,  was severely injured after being electrocuted by an 11,000-volt high-tension wire while returning home from school. The incident occurred near the Naad School after school hours when Zarish unknowingly came in contact with the dangerously exposed wires. As a result of the severe burns, doctors had to amputate one of her arms and one of her legs, leaving this innocent child permanently disabled.

This tragic event raises several critical questions about the safety of the region’s infrastructure and the negligence of authorities in ensuring the well-being of children and the public. Zarish’s life has been irrevocably altered, but the question remains: Who is responsible for this?

In the aftermath of the incident, the local community has been left in shock, with many demanding immediate accountability. “What happened to Zarish could have happened to anyone’s child. This is a call for all of us to stand together and demand justice for her,” said a local resident.

Despite widespread public outrage, there is still no indication that those responsible for the exposed wires and the dangerous situation will face any consequences. The silence of the authorities is deafening, and many fear that once again, the voices of the powerless will go unheard, as is often the case in cases involving the poor and marginalized.

This incident is not just a personal tragedy for Zarish and her family, but a symptom of a much larger problem: the lack of safety and accountability in Azad Kashmir. “We cannot allow our children to be treated as expendable. If we are silent, we are complicit. The system is broken, and we must demand a change,” said a local activist.

Moreover, the public response to this tragedy has been intense. Protesters took to the streets, and the Naad-Kotli-Mirpur Road was completely blocked for six hours as a sign of protest against the government’s failure to address the safety concerns of the region’s citizens.

This tragic story highlights the critical need for urgent reform in the region’s infrastructure and a systemic change to ensure that the rights and safety of the people are respected. Zarish’s case is a stark reminder of the ongoing negligence that continues to put the lives of children and families in danger.

In the face of this injustice, the community is demanding accountability. “We need to think of Zarish as one of our own. Just for a moment, think of her as your daughter or sister. Would you remain silent?” a protestor stated.

This incident begs the question: Will Zarish get the justice she deserves? Will those in power be held accountable, or will the law continue to only serve the powerful?

As the international community watches, the people of Azad Kashmir stand united, calling for justice for Zarish Kashif. The struggle for justice and accountability is not just about one child; it’s about creating a safer and fairer future for all.