questions mount over
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Questions mount over funding as violence mars London Kashmir protest

A protest held in central London in the name of solidarity with Kashmir has come under scrutiny following allegations over its funding and organisation, while reports of violence against a senior journalist have further fuelled controversy surrounding the demonstration.

According to claims circulating among sections of the British Pakistani and Kashmiri community, around 50 coaches were arranged to transport participants from Bradford, Manchester and Birmingham to London. Some community members have alleged that the overall cost of the mobilisation exceeded £500,000 and have publicly questioned who financed the event, calling for greater transparency over its funding and logistics.

Community sources further alleged that some families were offered a free day trip to London, including complimentary coach travel, to encourage participation in the demonstration. According to the sources, the offer attracted families who joined the trip.

Allegations circulating on social media have also suggested that foreign elements including Indian agencies may have supported the protests through there frontmen’s

Some members of the community further claimed that the number of British Pakistanis and Azad Kashmiris attending the protest was lower than expected, while participants from other communities appeared more visible.

The demonstration was overshadowed by the alleged assault on senior Pakistani journalist Murtaza Ali Shah while he was covering the protest. Reports of the incident have drawn concern from journalists and media organisations, with calls for those responsible to be identified and held accountable.

Witnesses also alleged that some protesters behaved aggressively towards members of the media, raising concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists covering public demonstrations. Media observers said any intimidation or violence against journalists undermines democratic values and damages the credibility of a protest.

The protest took place amid continuing demonstrations by sections of the Kashmiri diaspora over developments in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. While organisers described the event as a show of solidarity with Kashmir, the allegations over funding, crowd mobilisation and the reported violence have shifted attention to the conduct and organisation of the demonstration.

The organisers have not publicly responded to the allegations regarding the event’s funding, logistics or the reported assault on the journalist. Community representatives have called for full transparency over the financing of the protest and urged all parties to ensure that future demonstrations remain peaceful and respectful of media freedom.Organisers have rejected claims of Indian funding by saying there members contributed for the arrangements.

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