PressFreedom – Rights Groups Condemn Media Curbs and Violence in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir
PressFreedom – Global human rights organisations and press freedom advocates have strongly criticised the reported use of force against protesters and restrictions on media coverage in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The statements come as demonstrations continue in Rawalakot and other parts of the region, with international watchdogs calling for transparent investigations, restored communications, and greater protection for journalists working on the ground.
Amnesty International Calls for Independent Investigation
Amnesty International expressed concern over reports of excessive force allegedly used by security personnel during demonstrations in Rawalakot. The organisation said the reported incidents reflected a troubling pattern of state action against protesters and stressed that an impartial and transparent investigation should be launched without delay.
The rights group also warned that ongoing internet and mobile network shutdowns are making it difficult for independent observers to verify events in the affected areas. According to Amnesty, restoring communication services and allowing journalists as well as independent monitors to access the region are essential steps for ensuring accountability and public confidence in the investigation process.
Press Freedom Concerns Intensify
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ Asia) also issued a series of statements highlighting what it described as a worsening environment for media freedom in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The organisation pointed to reports of internet disruptions, telecommunications restrictions, obstacles to news reporting, and the alleged detention and disappearance of journalists covering the protests.
CPJ urged the Pakistani authorities to immediately remove restrictions affecting journalists, restore access to information, and permit independent media organisations to report freely on developments in the region. It said unrestricted reporting is vital during periods of public unrest so that accurate information can reach citizens and the international community.
Missing Journalists Raise Fresh Alarm
Among CPJ’s major concerns is the reported disappearance of independent journalist Razi Tahir and his colleague Muhammad Saif. According to the organisation, both men have been missing since August 1 after reportedly being taken from their office in Islamabad by individuals wearing police uniforms.
CPJ called on the authorities to clarify whether the two journalists are being held in official custody. It said that if they have been detained, authorities should ensure legal due process and release them immediately if no lawful grounds for detention exist.
The organisation also referred to Kashmiri journalist Raja Ikram, who was reportedly detained in Islamabad on August 1 before later being released. CPJ said such incidents have increased concerns about the safety of journalists reporting on developments related to the protests.
Reports of Media Restrictions Continue
The press freedom body further noted reports suggesting that access to the international broadcaster Al Jazeera may have been restricted in Pakistan following its coverage of events in Kashmir. While those reports remain unconfirmed, Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has publicly criticised the broadcaster’s reporting.
CPJ also referred to media reports indicating that partial internet shutdowns and significant telecommunications restrictions have remained in effect across Pakistan-administered Kashmir since early June. It said prolonged communication disruptions can severely affect both news gathering and the public’s ability to access reliable information during a crisis.
Casualty Figures Highlight Serious Situation
The criticism from international organisations comes as concerns continue to grow over the human impact of the ongoing protests. According to figures released by the Human Rights Council of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (HRC-PoJK) and updated on Sunday, a total of 80 deaths have been recorded.
The reported figures include 33 civilian deaths before July 27, another 43 fatalities recorded after July 27 across Rawalakot, Mirpur, and Muzaffarabad, along with four members of the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir police. The casualty figures have added to international calls for transparency, independent investigations, and measures aimed at protecting civilians, journalists, and fundamental human rights during the continuing unrest.