UKPNP Leaders Criticize Demographic Changes in PoJK and PoGB

Muzaffarabad [PoJK], Jan 27: Jamil Maqsood, the President of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP), has condemned the ongoing demographic changes in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB).

Maqsood asserted that the Pakistani government’s strategic attempts to modify the region’s population and socio-political dynamics constitute a blatant violation of the rights of the native inhabitants.

In a recent discussion on social media platform X, he pointed out that the demographic alterations, which involve a significant influx of non-local settlers, are strategically designed to advance Pakistan’s political and economic objectives, thereby undermining the power and influence of the region’s original residents.

He underscored the absence of protection for local properties and citizens, which has led to the marginalization of indigenous communities. According to him, the suppression of their cultural identity and resource access is reshaping the demographic landscape of both PoJK and PoGB.

Sardar Shoukat Ali Kashmiri, Chairman of the UKPNP, also addressed the issue during the discussion, particularly criticizing the current state of land occupancy in these areas. Kashmiri remarked, “The scarcity of industries in the region, coupled with the rising trend of land acquisition by outsiders, has intensified tensions.” He expressed concern that local residents in PoGB, especially those from the Hunza district, are increasingly losing their land to non-locals, thereby depriving them of their economic and social rights.

Kashmiri further denounced the government’s tactics that foster hatred among the populace to maintain control, noting that this is also influencing the demographic shift in the region. He expressed hope that one day, the occupiers would be compelled to leave, allowing the people to reclaim their rights and restore peace.

Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for international awareness regarding the human rights violations in these occupied territories, calling on the global community to support the struggle for justice and self-determination for the people of PoJK and PoGB. (Agencies)