UKPNP spokesperson criticizes Pakistan for lack of development in POK

Mar 20, 2024

Geneva [Switzerland], March 19 (ANI): Sardar Nasir Aziz Khan, the Central Spokesperson for the United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP), highlighted the issues and adversities faced by the people of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). In an interview with ANI, Khan emphasized that the area referred to as Azad Kashmir or Free Kashmir is not truly free and independent, as its name suggests. He described the administration set up by Pakistan as reminiscent of colonial British rule, where lent officers wielded absolute power. “The lent officers of Pakistan ruled the POK as the viceroys used to rule during the colonial British era, during which they enjoyed absolute powers. The people of POK are very deprived of everything, as there are no jobs and industries. Government jobs are also very limited and are given to the people who are loyalists of Pakistan”, said Nasir Aziz Khan. Regarding Pakistan's suppression of protests in POK, Khan stated that anyone advocating for rights, resource ownership, or self-rule is labeled anti-state and anti-Islam. He noted widespread discontent among POK residents over the lack of development and access to basic resources. Khan criticized Pakistan's foreign and defense policies for disproportionately focusing on POK, with strict control over information and media censorship in the region.