Farooq Abdullah Urges UN to Investigate Violence in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir
Call for Investigation into Human Rights Violations
Farooq Abdullah, the president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, has appealed to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to investigate the recent unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), where there are allegations of civilian killings by Pakistani security forces. Speaking to reporters on June 11, Abdullah expressed concern over the dire situation in the region, stating that operations are ongoing in the area controlled by Pakistan, where oppression is rampant and many lives have been lost. He noted that complete information about the incidents is still not available.
Abdullah's Plea for UN Intervention
Abdullah emphasized the need for the UN human rights committee to visit the region and witness the hardships faced by the local population. He mentioned that while many lives have been lost in these incidents, the circumstances remain unclear. On June 10, a significant rally took place in Rawalakot, PoJK, where local leaders and representatives from the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) criticized the authorities' response to the protests and demanded a fair investigation into the deaths and injuries.
Condemnation of Military Actions
Human rights activists have condemned the recent actions of the Pakistani military against civilians in PoJK and have called on the UN to hold them accountable. Tasleema Akhtar, chairperson of the Association of Terror Victims in Kashmir, protested outside the UN office, stating that they are here to support the people of Jammu and Kashmir under illegal Pakistani occupation and to highlight how the Pakistani military has continuously fired upon innocent civilians.
Demands for Accountability and Rights
Protesters in PoJK have demanded accountability, civil rights, and an end to the use of force against peaceful demonstrations by the Pakistani administration. Thousands gathered in Rawalakot, chanting against Pakistan's ongoing occupation and its policies. They called for justice for the civilians who were killed and injured during the recent protests.