Several British parliamentarians have criticized the use of force against peaceful protesters and civil society representatives in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK). They expressed concern over reports of blackouts, lockdowns, arrests, and raids in the region. The lawmakers highlighted the distress faced by British Kashmiris unable to contact their relatives in POK.
They also raised issues regarding restrictions on communications, medical access for the injured, due process for detainees, and the breakdown in dialogue with peaceful protesters and civil society groups. The signatories emphasized that peaceful advocacy for various rights should not be criminalized. They demanded the restoration of communications, lifting of restrictions, safe medical access, protection of peaceful assemblies, and the release of detainees.
The parliamentarians called on the Pakistani government to end the lockdown, restore communications, and engage in peaceful dialogue respecting human rights in POK. They urged diplomatic efforts to lift the lockdown, enhance consular support for affected British nationals, and prevent further escalation. The remarks follow reports of casualties and injuries in clashes between law enforcement and protesters in Rawalakot city.
British MPs had previously written to the UK’s Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs expressing concerns over the communication blackout in POK. They highlighted the escalating tensions and restrictions hindering communication from the region. The lawmakers emphasized the distress among British Kashmiris unable to contact their families and raised concerns about arrests and dialogue breakdowns.
