Accountability – UN Calls for Investigation Into Violence Against Peaceful Protesters in PoJK
Accountability –PoJK human rights concerns remain under international scrutiny as the United Nations calls for accountability over reported violence against peaceful demonstrators.
The United Nations has urged authorities in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) to uphold the right to peaceful assembly and investigate allegations of harm against protesters. The UN said those responsible for violations must face accountability, regardless of their position or affiliation.
UN Reiterates Right to Peaceful Protest
During a press briefing, UN Deputy Spokesperson for Secretary-General Farhan Haq was asked about the continuing unrest and human rights concerns in the region. He said authorities in every jurisdiction have a responsibility to protect the right of people to demonstrate peacefully.
Haq also referred to concerns previously raised by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk. He said the Secretary-General supports the High Commissioner’s work and expressed hope that his appeals would be taken seriously by the authorities concerned.
Responding specifically to questions about alleged injuries and deaths during protests, Haq stressed that any harm caused to people taking part in peaceful demonstrations should be properly investigated. He said accountability is necessary wherever protesters have been harmed while exercising their rights.
UN Human Rights Chief Had Raised Concerns
The latest UN remarks follow an earlier warning from Volker Turk over the deteriorating situation in PoJK. Turk had called on Pakistani authorities to show restraint, protect fundamental freedoms and ensure that allegations of violence were subjected to credible investigations.
According to the UN, dozens of people, including demonstrators and members of law enforcement, have reportedly died in protests that began in June amid growing political tensions ahead of Legislative Assembly elections.
Turk called for investigations into all reported deaths to be prompt, comprehensive and impartial. He also stressed that accountability should apply whether those killed were civilians participating in demonstrations or security personnel.
Concerns Over JKJAAC Ban and Arrests
The UN High Commissioner also criticised the decision to ban the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) under anti-terrorism legislation. The organisation has played a central role in the protest movement and includes representatives from several sections of society, including traders, transport workers, students, lawyers and civil society groups.
Several JKJAAC leaders were arrested after the organisation was outlawed on allegations connected with public order and security. Turk said detainees should be given access to lawyers and their families without delay.
He further emphasised that international human rights standards require authorities to safeguard due process and ensure fair trials for those facing legal proceedings.
India Raises PoJK Rights Situation
India has also criticised Pakistan over the developments in the region. During a media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the international community was witnessing what India described as a severe suppression of civil and political rights in PoJK.
Jaiswal alleged that Pakistani security forces had used lethal force, targeted killings and restrictions against demonstrations led by local residents. He called on Pakistan to address reported human rights violations and take action against militant networks operating from its territory.
He also reiterated India’s longstanding position regarding territories under Pakistan’s control, calling for their vacation and describing Islamabad’s diplomatic responses as insufficient.
Violence and Restrictions Reported Since June
The situation has remained tense since June, with reports of deaths among protesters and security personnel during demonstrations. Authorities have also faced criticism over restrictions affecting internet access and the ability of foreign media organisations to report freely from the region.
The UN’s latest comments place renewed emphasis on independent investigations, protection of peaceful assembly and accountability for alleged violations. The organisation’s position is that fundamental rights must be protected during periods of political unrest and that allegations of abuses should be addressed through credible legal processes.