Kotli, Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir — In the aftermath of recent cross-border hostilities between India and Pakistan, which left several civilians dead or injured across the Line of Control (LoC), pro-independence political parties in Pakistan-administered Kashmir launched a peaceful march towards the United Nations Military Observer Group (UNMOGIP) office in Kotli, demanding attention to the plight of Kashmiris trapped in the decades-long conflict.
The march, which was organized jointly by leading pro-independence groups including the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), aimed to appeal for international intervention and the demilitarization of the region. Heavy police deployment under Section 144 was observed in Kotli to prevent the rally, yet the protestors proceeded peacefully and reached the gates of the UN office without incident.
However, upon arrival, protestors were informed that the UN officials were not present, allegedly having relocated to Islamabad due to the security situation.
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“Even the UN Doors Are Now Closed for Kashmiris” – Aman Kashmiri
In a strongly worded video message, Aman Kashmiri, Chief Organizer of JKLF in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, condemned the absence of UN officials at a time when tensions along the LoC are at a peak.
“The UN officials, whose responsibility is to monitor military movements along the LoC, are missing during a crisis that has left both lives and infrastructure in ruins. This negligence raises serious concerns about their commitment to peacekeeping in Kashmir,” he stated.
Kashmiri also emphasized that the people of Jammu & Kashmir must be recognized as the first party in any dialogue or resolution process related to the region’s future. He reiterated the long-standing demand for the withdrawal of all foreign military forces and the restoration of Kashmiri self-determination under international law.
Growing Distrust in International Institutions
The symbolic march comes at a time when local communities across Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Indian-administered Kashmir feel increasingly alienated from both the regional powers and international institutions. Despite multiple resolutions and observer mandates, the UN has failed to offer substantial protection or mediation on the ground, according to many rights advocates.
This protest marks yet another chapter in the continued struggle of stateless Kashmiris who remain caught between geopolitical rivalries and broken promises of self-rule.
