Demonstrators warn of severe consequences over India’s water aggression, rising tensions
ISLAMABAD: A large crowd of civil society members and political activists staged a vociferous protest outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad on Thursday, condemning what they called a “false flag operation” orchestrated by India in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Organized by the Pakistan Markazi Muslim League, the protest was part of a nationwide response to India’s recent accusations and actions, which demonstrators described as a provocation designed to escalate regional tensions. Protesters accused New Delhi of “water terrorism” and warned of dire consequences if aggression continued.
‘There will be blood in these rivers’
With banners, placards, and emotional chants filling the air, demonstrators gathered outside the heavily-guarded diplomatic mission, shouting slogans against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and accusing India of attempting to destabilize the region.
“There will be blood in these rivers if you continue this aggression,” shouted one protester, echoing the sentiment of many who accused India of violating the Indus Waters Treaty and fomenting unrest in Kashmir.
Another protester added, “India must not be under any illusions. If you block our water, we will block your breath.”
Symbolic References and Historic Grievances
Protest leaders referenced the arrests of Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav and the capture and subsequent return of Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman as evidence of India’s past hostilities. They accused New Delhi of employing “double standards” and “cultural hypocrisy” while continuing to violate international agreements.
Security forces had placed barriers and deployed additional personnel in the Diplomatic Enclave to control the protest and ensure order. Despite tensions, the demonstration concluded peacefully.
Nationwide Response
Similar demonstrations were held in Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar, as political and religious groups rallied in support of Pakistan’s stance, urging the government to respond with firmness and unity.
The protests follow a surge in diplomatic tensions after India blamed Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 tourists. Pakistan has strongly rejected the allegation, calling it a “baseless and politically motivated false flag operation.”
