Leading human rights organization Amnesty International has expressed serious concerns over the ongoing communication blackouts, arbitrary arrests, and movement restrictions in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The organization highlighted that these actions by Pakistani authorities are impacting the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association in the region. As regional elections near on July 27, Amnesty International called for ensuring that people in PoK can freely exercise their rights without fear.
The rights body urged Pakistani authorities to investigate alleged unlawful use of force against protesters, restore internet services, release individuals detained for peaceful activities, and lift the ban on the civil society group Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Despite adverse weather conditions, JAAC reported a voluntary shutdown and protests in PoK, criticizing the authorities for their treatment of civilians. The group emphasized the importance of peaceful negotiations and urged social media activists not to engage in misleading propaganda.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) also expressed serious concerns about violations of freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association in PoK. The OHCHR spokesperson emphasized the need for detained JAAC leaders to have legal representation and fair trial rights. The situation in PoK has escalated, leading to numerous casualties and injuries amid growing unrest.
