Dozens of innocents have been killed in PoK since June! United Nations expressed concern

United Nations. UN human rights chief Volker Turk has expressed deep concern over the increasing tension and unrest in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir or PoK. Appealing to maintain peace in the area, he has demanded a quick, impartial and thorough investigation into the deaths of protesters and security forces personnel. According to the statement of the United Nations Human Rights Office issued from Geneva, the situation in PoK remains tense ahead of the regional assembly elections to be held later this month. Dozens of innocent people have been reported dead since June, before the assembly elections to be held on July 27.

According to reports, most of the dozens of people killed in PoK are protesters, while some also include security personnel deployed to maintain law and order. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said all deaths during the unrest should be investigated promptly, impartially and with full transparency. This includes the deaths of protesters as well as security forces personnel. The Joint Awami Action Committee, which is leading the protests, includes traders, transporters, students, lawyers, social workers and others, the statement said.

Let us tell you that Pakistan has banned the Joint Awami Action Committee or JAAC under anti-terrorism laws, accusing it of posing a threat to public order and security. After this many leaders of the organization were also arrested. The United Nations said that criminalizing a civil organization and imposing strict restrictions on peaceful assemblies could violate fundamental rights such as freedom of expression, peaceful demonstration and the right to organize, so there is grave concern about these measures. Let us tell you that there were continuous reports coming from PoK that Pakistani Army is continuously committing atrocities there.

Volker Turk said that detained JAAC leaders should have full rights to meet with a lawyer and contact their families. At the same time, their right to a fair trial and to get justice according to the law should be fully protected. The UN also expressed concern over the restrictions imposed on internet services in PoK. The statement said that in a tense environment, internet shutdown disproportionately affects people’s right to receive, share and express information. Therefore, an appeal has been made to the authorities to restore internet services in the entire area.

The UN human rights chief also said that a meaningful and inclusive political dialogue should be initiated between all parties to find solutions to the problems and grievances of the local people. He believes that only through dialogue can permanent peace and normalcy be restored in the region.