Protesters in PoK demand removal of LoC fencing and reopening of routes to India

Approximately 25,000 protesters gathered in Mandhol village, located near the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), to demand the removal of border fencing and the reopening of traditional routes to India. The demonstration was led by Sardar Aman Khan of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC).

Protesters expressed significant grievances against the Pakistani administration and military, alleging that food supplies have been restricted for several months, leading to shortages. Demonstrators claimed that the military is pressuring residents to source rations from Islamabad rather than traditional markets in Mendhar.

Sardar Aman Khan announced plans for a major sit-in protest near the LoC fencing to demand its removal. During the rally, Khan also accused the Pakistan Army of cowardice, claiming soldiers retreated to barracks during border tensions, and alleged that the military has targeted local citizens who provided refuge to soldiers during previous incidents.