Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif labeled the PoK protesters as "enemies like India" after 14 activists were killed, heightening regional tensions and drawing international criticism.

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Key Takeaways

  • Defence Minister Khawaja Asif called the protesters "enemies like India".
  • Security forces in PoK killed at least 14 activists during a crackdown.
  • The statement has further escalated tensions in the disputed region.

In a televised interview, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said he treats the demonstrators descending on the streets of Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (PoK) as "enemies just like India" and dismissed any possibility of dialogue with them.

The protests, which have been ongoing for weeks, turned violent when security forces allegedly opened fire, resulting in the deaths of at least 14 activists and injuring more than two dozen. Among the dead was Usman Nazir, the younger brother of JAAC founder Umar Nazir.

Historical Background

PoK has been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan since the 1947 partition, sparking several wars and enduring a legacy of political and military friction. While local grievances have periodically surfaced, the large‑scale marches of 2024‑2025 marked a significant escalation in civilian dissent.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that minister Asif’s rhetoric could further polarize the already volatile situation in PoK, potentially inviting international scrutiny and affecting bilateral talks between India and Pakistan.

"Such statements risk turning a civil protest into a geopolitical flashpoint," says Dr. Ayesha Khan, South Asian security analyst.
Did You Know?: The first major public demonstrations in PoK occurred in 2021, setting a precedent for the recent surge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What sparked the latest protests in PoK? Demonstrators demanded the preservation of 12 assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees, which the authorities were planning to abolish.

Q2: How has India responded to Pakistan's statements? India's Ministry of External Affairs labeled the remarks a "show‑off political stunt" and highlighted ongoing human‑rights violations in the region.