Pakistani crackdown in PoJK sparks sharp condemnation from ATVK
Srinagar, June 12
The Association of Terror Victims in Kashmir has strongly condemned the reported killing of civilian protesters and the alleged use of excessive force by Pakistani authorities in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, calling the actions a grave violation of human rights and democratic freedoms.
In a memorandum, ATVK expressed deep concern over reports of civilian casualties and alleged human rights abuses during recent protests in the region.
The organisation stated that peaceful demonstrators were subjected to excessive force, describing the incidents as "heinous" and unacceptable.
The memorandum, issued by ATVK Chairperson and human rights activist Tasleema Akhter, urged the international community, human rights organisations, and global institutions to take immediate notice of the situation.
The group called for an impartial assessment of the developments in PoJK and demanded accountability for those responsible for the reported violence.
"Such actions constitute a serious violation of fundamental human rights and democratic freedoms," the memorandum stated, emphasising that the rights of civilians and peaceful protesters must be protected under international norms.
ATVK also appealed to the United Nations to intervene and take cognisance of the alleged violations.
The organisation urged the global body to press for measures aimed at preventing further violence and ensuring the protection of civilians in the region.
The memorandum further called on international stakeholders to uphold human dignity, safeguard fundamental rights, and ensure justice for affected communities.
According to the organisation, the suffering of innocent civilians should not be ignored, and those responsible for any unlawful use of force must be held accountable through transparent mechanisms.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International strongly condemned Pakistan's sweeping crackdown on protests in PoJK, accusing authorities of using excessive force, suppressing dissent, and violating fundamental human rights ahead of upcoming regional elections.
Amnesty criticised the decision to designate the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) as a "proscribed organisation" under anti-terrorism legislation.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who follows South Asian politics, this is concerning. The crackdown on peaceful protesters and designating a political group as 'terrorist' undermines democracy. Amnesty's criticism is valid. The people of PoJK deserve the same rights as anyone else. Hope the UN acts swiftly. 🙏
ATVK raising voice against human rights violations is commendable, but I can't help noticing the irony - Pakistan always lectures others about human rights but when it comes to PoJK, they show their true face. The crackdown on JKJAAC shows they fear genuine democratic expression. India should use this to highlight our stance on PoJK.
What's happening in PoJK is tragic but predictable. Pakistan treats PoJK as occupied territory and anyone questioning their control gets crushed. The world should not just condemn but also ensure the people there get their democratic rights. Meanwhile, India should strengthen its case for all of Jammu and Kashmir.
The crackdown is brutal but what else do we expect from Pakistan? They've always used force to suppress dissent. However, ATVK should also look at human rights issues within India-administered Kashmir more critically. It's not just about pointing fingers across the border. We need introspection too. 🇮🇳
This is a clear violation of human rights. Peaceful protesters being killed is unacceptable anywhere. But I'm skeptical - ATVK has its own agenda. While I support condemning Pakistan's actions, the international community must be consistent in calling out all human rights abuses, not just selective ones. Let's hope the UN does something concrete.