British Kashmiris Confront Pakistani Consul General in Birmingham Over Civilian Deaths in Pojk
BIRMINGHAM: A viral video has captured a heated confrontation between members of the British-Kashmiri community and the Pakistani Consul General in Birmingham, with protesters accusing him of evading dialogue amid escalating violence in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).
The footage shows the Consul General leaving the premises through a back exit before quickly getting into his vehicle, as demonstrators call out for answers regarding civilian casualties in PoJK.
Protestors, affiliated with the British-Kashmiri diaspora, voiced their frustration, alleging that Pakistani authorities were avoiding responsibility. “Talk to us! We just want to speak with you. Come out and lower the window! Our people are dying, and you can’t even speak to us?” one protester shouted, as heard in the video.
Another demonstrator claimed that over 20 civilians had been killed and more than 200 injured in recent clashes. “He was trying to secretly escape from here, so we stopped him. Why doesn’t he want to talk to us?” another protester asked while directly addressing the camera.
The crowd, waving flags and chanting slogans, demanded justice and accountability for ongoing human rights violations in PoJK. The video has gained traction across social media, amplifying calls for awareness among diaspora communities and activists in Europe.
The backdrop to these protests is a wave of mass demonstrations and strikes across PoJK, organised by the Joint Awami Action Committee. The protests are driven by demands for essential rights, economic relief, and greater political autonomy. Violent clashes and Islamabad’s inaction have further inflamed public discontent.
Meanwhile, in Geneva, leaders from the UKPNP (United Kashmir People’s National Party) have also appealed for international intervention, denouncing Pakistan for its suppression of dissent. As unrest mounts, the movement highlights growing unity and determination among Kashmiris against decades of state neglect and unfulfilled promises.