The United Nations human rights office has expressed concern over the escalating unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), calling for independent investigations into the deaths of protesters and urging authorities to protect fundamental rights amid rising political tensions.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has called on Pakistani authorities to exercise restraint, ensure accountability for reported violence and uphold international human rights standards ahead of regional elections scheduled for later this month. Türk appealed for calm as demonstrations and tensions continue across the territory.
According to the UN, dozens of people have reportedly been killed since last month during protests linked to growing political unrest. The High Commissioner called for prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into all deaths connected with the disturbances.
The UN also raised concerns over Pakistan’s decision to ban the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), the group leading the protest movement, under anti-terrorism legislation. The organisation, which includes traders, transport workers, students, lawyers and civil society representatives, was declared unlawful over allegations that it posed a threat to public order and security. Several of its leaders were subsequently detained.
Türk warned that criminalising a civil society movement and imposing broad restrictions on public gatherings could raise serious concerns regarding violations of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association. He urged authorities to ensure that detained JKJAAC leaders receive immediate access to legal representation and are able to communicate with their families.
The UN High Commissioner also criticised restrictions on internet access imposed in parts of the territory, stating that communication shutdowns can disproportionately affect freedom of expression and limit people’s ability to access and share information during periods of crisis.
The United Nations has urged authorities to restore full internet connectivity across the region and ensure that all measures taken in response to the unrest comply with international human rights obligations.
