UN Flags Rights Violations In PoK Ahead Of July 27 Vote, Seeks Probe Into Protester Deaths
UN Flags Rights Violations In PoK Ahead Of July 27 Vote, Seeks Probe Into Protester Deaths Reported By, Last Updated: July 18, 2026, 14:48 IST
UN Flags Rights Violations In PoK Ahead Of July 27 Vote, Seeks Probe Into Protester Deaths Reported By, Last Updated: July 18, 2026, 14:48 IST Calling for a probe into the reported deaths, the UN also questioned the ban on the JAAC and restrictions on civil liberties. Rapid Read Supporters of JAAC gather as they shout slogans during a protest in Rawalakot, in PoK on June 24, 2026. (Image: AFP) The United Nations human rights office has called for calm in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir amid deadly unrest ahead of the regional elections scheduled for July 27, raising concerns over protester deaths, arrests of civil society leaders, restrictions on public gatherings and an Internet blackout. UN Human Rights spokesperson Jeremy Laurence said dozens of people, most of them protesters but also law enforcement personnel, had reportedly been killed since June. “UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk appeals for calm in Pakistan-Administered Kashmir amid a wave of unrest ahead of regional elections at the end of the month. Dozens of people, mostly protesters but also law enforcement personnel, have reportedly been killed since June ahead of the vote for the Legislative Assembly on 27 July," Laurence said in Geneva.
UN Seeks Impartial Probe Into Deaths The UN Human Rights Chief called for prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into all deaths linked to the unrest, including those of protesters and members of the security forces. “The High Commissioner calls for prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into all deaths that have occurred due to the unrest, both amongst protesters and members of security forces," Laurence said. The appeal comes amid heightened tensions and a continuing crackdown on demonstrations in the region. JAAC Ban Raises Human Rights Concerns The UN also expressed concern over the use of anti-terrorism laws to ban the Joint Awami Action Committee, or JAAC, which has been leading the protests. The committee comprises traders, transporters, students, lawyers, activists and other sections of civil society. “The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) — a movement behind the protests comprising traders, transporters, students, lawyers, activists and others — has been banned under anti-terrorism laws for allegedly threatening public order and security. Some of the group’s leaders have subsequently been arrested," Laurence said. He warned that the action against the committee, along with restrictions on gatherings, could violate fundamental freedoms.
“The criminalisation of a civil society organisation and imposition of strict limitations on gatherings raise serious concerns about infringements on the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association," he said. UN Seeks Legal Access For Detained Leaders The UN human rights office urged the authorities to ensure that detained JAAC leaders are allowed access to lawyers and their families. Laurence said their rights to due process and a fair trial must be fully guaranteed. Internet Restrictions Under Scrutiny The UN also raised concerns over restrictions on Internet access in the region, saying the measures were limiting the free flow of information at a time of heightened tensions. “Restrictions in the area on access to the Internet are also concerning, as they disproportionately restrict the enjoyment of the right to freedom of expression, including freedom to seek, receive and impart information at a time when tensions are running high," Laurence said. “We urge the authorities to ensure full Internet access throughout the territory," he added. Call For Inclusive Political Dialogue The UN Human Rights Chief called for meaningful and inclusive political dialogue to address the grievances driving the protests.
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