This edition of India First focusses on the protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir against the crackdown by the Pakistani army and Islamabad's diplomatic offensive to project itself as the inheritor of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Massive protests have escalated across PoK following a severe crackdown by the Pakistani army and security forces. Thousands of demonstrators have hit the streets in cities like Rawalakot, defying an internet ban and restrictions on essential supplies, including food, vegetables, and medicines.
And Pakistan has mounted a diplomatic offensive to project itself as the inheritor of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Historically, the nation traced its origins to Arab, Turkish, and Persian roots, celebrating the conquest of Sindh by Muhammad bin Qasim in 712 AD. However, following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan is abruptly embracing its pre-Islamic Sanatan roots. Pakistan's Information Minister Ataullah Tarar recently referred to the nation as an 'Indus water civilization'.
