UKPNP Raises Alarm Over Alleged Human Rights Violations in PoK

Concerns over the deteriorating situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have intensified, with the United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) urging the international community to take note of alleged human rights violations and the reported use of force against civilians and protesters in the region.

In a statement, the UKPNP alleged that Pakistani security forces have been involved in civilian deaths and injuries, arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances and restrictions on movement. It also raised concerns over communication blackouts and what it described as punitive action against political activists and human rights defenders.

The group called for an independent investigation into allegations of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, unlawful detention and excessive use of force. It also alleged that homes, shops, businesses and private property had been damaged or vandalised during the unrest.

The UKPNP urged the United Nations and other members of the international community to press Pakistan to stop what it described as the excessive and lethal use of force against peaceful protesters and civilians.

The organisation cited information attributed to the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), along with reports in international media, and claimed that dozens of civilians had died since June 5, while hundreds had been arrested or detained. It further said that families were still searching for information about relatives who were allegedly taken away during the protests.

The group also highlighted the impact of communication restrictions, calling for the restoration of mobile networks, internet connectivity and other communication services. According to the UKPNP, prolonged disruptions have isolated communities and made it difficult for people living abroad to remain in contact with their families in the region.

The organisation demanded that Pakistani authorities disclose the whereabouts of all detained or missing individuals. It said detainees should be allowed access to their families, lawyers and medical care and should be provided an independent judicial process. Those arrested solely for peacefully exercising their fundamental rights, it said, should be released.

Another demand concerned protesters who were reportedly killed during the unrest. The UKPNP called for the immediate and unconditional return of bodies allegedly still being held by authorities, saying families should be allowed to carry out funerals without pressure or intimidation.

The group also sought restoration of what it described as basic civil and political rights in the territory, including freedom of movement, expression, peaceful assembly and association. It called for access to communications, legal representation, healthcare and essential services, along with the restoration of blocked passports, identity documents, SIM cards and bank accounts.

The UKPNP has also appealed to the United Nations to send an independent fact-finding and human rights monitoring mission to PoK. It wants such a mission to examine allegations of excessive use of force, arbitrary detention, torture, enforced disappearances, restrictions on media access, communication blackouts, collective punishment and property destruction.

The allegations made by the UKPNP could not be independently verified from the information available in the report. However, the demands underline the growing international scrutiny surrounding the unrest and the need for transparent investigations into reported incidents involving civilians.