The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) has urged Pakistani authorities to show restraint and avoid using force against peaceful protesters participating in the Long March organized by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) from Rawalakot to Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The UKPNP mentioned that over 40 individuals have lost their lives since June 5 during the ongoing unrest in the region. The Long March was initiated after talks between JAAC and Pakistani authorities reportedly failed to yield a mutually agreeable outcome, leading to a renewed call for public mobilization.
Reports indicated that the Long March would commence from Mirpur Division on July 26, with groups converging at the Rawalakot sit-in before advancing towards Muzaffarabad on July 27. Additionally, there were mentions of the deployment of extra Pakistani security forces, including the Rangers, Frontier Constabulary (FC), and Punjab Constabulary (PC), in anticipation of the planned march. Emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest, freedom of assembly, and expression as fundamental human rights under international law, the UKPNP stressed the need for these rights to be upheld and safeguarded under all circumstances.
The UKPNP called on authorities to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from using force against peaceful demonstrators, highlighting the significance of protecting human life and preserving fundamental freedoms as the primary duty of every state. Expressing deep concern over the reported loss of more than 40 lives, the UKPNP urged for thorough, independent investigations into each death or injury, with accountability in accordance with the law. The organization also appealed to various international bodies, including the United Nations, the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia, to actively support initiatives aimed at safeguarding civilians, fostering constructive dialogue, and achieving a peaceful resolution to the critical situation in PoK.
