PoJK activist urges UN intervention over alleged violent crackdown in Rawalakot
Scotland, June 8
Political activist from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Amjad Ayub Mirza, has appealed to the United Nations for urgent intervention amid what he described as a worsening humanitarian and political crisis in PoJK.
In a video statement, Amjad Ayub Mirza raised alarm over reports of an alleged violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrators in Rawalakot who were protesting for economic, social, and civil rights.
Citing information received from local sources, Amjad Ayub Mirza claimed that security operations involved personnel from the Pakistani Rangers, Punjab Police, and military units. According to the activist, the operations resulted in civilian casualties, including deaths and injuries among unarmed protesters.
He further alleged that live ammunition had been used against demonstrators, creating an atmosphere of fear and repression across the region. "The people of PoJK have the right to peaceful assembly. They have the right to raise their voices without fear of bullets, intimidation, or repression," Amjad Ayub Mirza stated.
The activist criticised Pakistan's handling of the unrest, arguing that the large-scale deployment of security forces has heightened tensions rather than addressing public grievances. He stated that the reported actions raised serious concerns about the protection of civilians and adherence to fundamental human rights standards.
Amjad Ayub Mirza also highlighted allegations of arbitrary detentions, intimidation, and excessive use of force, urging the international community to independently verify the situation on the ground.
In his appeal, he called on the United Nations to immediately dispatch an independent fact-finding mission to investigate the allegations, ensure protection for civilians, and facilitate access for international journalists, humanitarian observers, and human rights organisations.
He also urged diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and encourage dialogue between authorities and protesters.
Amjad Ayub Mirza said the consequences could be severe if the reports emerging from the region proved accurate. "The world must not remain silent while civilians plead for protection," he stated.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is deeply concerning. Using live ammunition against unarmed protesters is unacceptable anywhere. I hope the international community takes this seriously and sends an independent fact-finding mission. Ignoring these allegations would be a failure of global justice.
This is exactly why the world needs to stop looking the other way when it comes to PoJK. The people there are being crushed by Pakistan's military and paramilitary forces. Amjad Ayub Mirza is a brave man to speak out like this. Sending prayers to our brothers and sisters in Rawalakot. 🙏
I have mixed feelings. While the allegations are serious, we also need to verify the facts independently. Reports from conflict zones can be one-sided. That said, if true, this is clearly a violation of human rights. The UN should investigate promptly and transparently.
PoJK is neither Pakistan nor India's – it's the people who live there and they have the right to decide their future. Pakistan using Rangers and Punjab Police against their own civilians? That's a brutal joke. The UN should send observers immediately before more innocent lives are lost. 😢
I want to believe this is true, but we've seen so much misinformation before. Let's wait for independent verification. That said, the mere possibility that civilians are being shot at is horrifying. The UN must act without delay to establish facts and ensure protection for those people.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.