Tensions have risen in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir after the Joint Awami Action Committee launched a long march towards Muzaffarabad following the collapse of talks with Pakistani authorities…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Tensions have escalated in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) after the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) launched a long march towards Muzaffarabad following the failure of negotiations with Pakistani authorities, prompting fresh calls for restraint amid fears of further unrest.
The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) urged Pakistani authorities on Monday to refrain from using force against peaceful demonstrators, stressing that the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression must be protected.
According to the UKPNP, more than 40 people have reportedly lost their lives since June 5 amid continuing unrest in the region.
The latest mobilisation follows the collapse of talks between JAAC and Pakistani authorities, which reportedly failed to produce a mutually acceptable agreement, leading organisers to press ahead with the protest march.
The Long March began from Mirpur Division on Sunday, with protest caravans converging at a sit-in in Rawalakot before proceeding towards Muzaffarabad on Monday, according to JAAC.
The UKPNP also cited reports indicating that Pakistan had deployed additional security personnel, including Rangers, the Frontier Constabulary (FC) and Punjab Constabulary (PC), ahead of the planned march.
In a statement posted on X, the organisation said peaceful assembly, association and freedom of expression are fundamental rights recognised under international human rights law.
“We call upon the authorities to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from the use of force against peaceful protesters. Protecting human life and safeguarding fundamental freedoms remain the primary responsibility of every state,” the UKPNP said.
Expressing concern over the reported casualties, the group added: “Every reported death or injury should be subject to prompt, thorough, independent, and impartial investigation, with accountability in accordance with the law.”
The organisation also appealed to the United Nations, the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia and the wider international community to support efforts aimed at protecting civilians, encouraging dialogue and promoting a peaceful resolution to the situation in PoK.
It further called on international media organisations and independent human rights groups to closely monitor developments in the region and document any alleged human rights violations by Pakistani authorities.
