The situation in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) continues to remain serious, where the repressive action against peaceful civilians and protesters has evoked strong international reaction. The United Nations (UN) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation and human rights violations in PoK. Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, in a statement, has categorically said that those who use force against peaceful protesters and cause harm to them must be held accountable under all circumstances. After this high-profile international statement, the situation in PoK has once again become the center of discussion on the global stage.
Emphasis is being given on the appeal of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
Responding to questions from journalists at UN Headquarters, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Farhan Haq, clarified that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres fully supports all the steps taken by High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk and his work. Recently, High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk expressed serious concern over the recent developments in PoK and called for an impartial and thorough investigation into the deaths of protesters, the ban on the United Awami Action Committee, and the illegal arrests of its leaders. Furthermore, measures such as the suspension of internet services and the ban on public gatherings, which seek to suppress freedom of expression in the region, were termed as blatant violations of human rights.
Advocating for accountability and the right to peaceful protest
The United Nations has clearly stated that citizens in PoK, as elsewhere in the world, should have the full right to peaceful protest. It is the responsibility of authorities to respect the democratic rights of the people rather than suppress their voices. According to the UN, dozens of people have lost their lives since June, before the so-called assembly elections held on July 27th, most of whom were peaceful protesters. The UN has emphasized that it is essential to hold accountable those responsible for these violent incidents and deaths, so that the victims can receive justice and such incidents can be prevented in the future.