Indian human rights activists have strongly denounced the recent actions of the Pakistan military in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), labelling them a crackdown on innocent civilians. The issue was raised during a protest held outside the United Nations office in Srinagar on June 11, where demonstrators called for accountability and justice.

Tasleema Akhter, the Chairperson of the Association of Terror Victims in Kashmir, stated the group’s purpose was to advocate for the people of PoJK. She articulated concerns regarding the violent responses of the Pakistan Army against peaceful protesters, claiming that civilians had been indiscriminately fired upon while expressing their grievances.

During the protest, Akhter revealed that the Pakistan Army allegedly opened fire under the orders of General Asim Munir. She described the barrage of bullets as akin to rain, highlighting the severity of the situation. She asserted that the group intends to present a memorandum to the UN to highlight the demands for justice in PoJK.

Claims Of Systematic Abuse Against Civilians

Akhter emphasised that Pakistan’s actions in PoJK are not unnoticed and reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for the rights of those living in the region. She stated confidently that PoJK is considered an integral part of India’s Jammu and Kashmir, condemning Pakistan’s perceived impunity in committing violations against the local populace.

Furthermore, Akhter asserted that financial resources raised globally in the name of PoJK have transformed the area into what she referred to as a “financial business industry.” She expressed hope that the United Nations would acknowledge the ongoing violations and take substantive action to uphold human rights standards.

Reports from PoJK indicate that protesters are increasingly vocal about their demands for civil rights and accountability, especially in light of alleged attacks on peaceful demonstrators by Pakistani security forces. Despite risks, thousands of individuals from various districts assembled in Rawalakot, chanting against the alleged continuous occupation by Pakistan and its policies in the area.

Amnesty International’s Response To The Situation

In the wake of the protests, Amnesty International has issued a statement addressing the crackdown on civilian demonstrations in PoJK. The organisation condemned the excessive use of force by Pakistani authorities and labelled their actions as a violation of fundamental human rights, especially before forthcoming regional elections.

Amnesty also responded critically to the classification of the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) as a “proscribed organisation” under anti-terrorism laws, calling the designation unlawful and disproportionate. The group maintained that such measures severely undermine freedom of association and hinder peaceful political expression.

The escalation in violence has reportedly followed the breakdown of negotiations between the JKJAAC and authorities regarding the structure of the region’s legislative assembly. The situation remains tense in PoJK, with ongoing demands for justice, accountability, and the protection of civil liberties amid an environment of repression and dissent.

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