UNHRA calls for probe into deaths of PoJK protesters

The United Nations Human Rights agency has voiced concern over the wave of unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), calling for investigations into deaths of protesters. In a statement, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk urged Pakistani authorities to exercise restraint, protect fundamental rights, and ensure accountability for reported violence ahead of regional elections at the end of the month. Turk appealed for calm as tensions continue to rise across the region. According to the UN, dozens of people have reportedly been killed since last month during demonstrations linked to growing political unrest ahead of the elections. The High Commissioner called for prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into all deaths that have occurred due to the unrest. Turk also expressed concern over Pakistan’s decision to ban the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), the organisation leading the protest movement, under anti-terrorism laws. The JKAAC, which includes traders, transporters, students, lawyers and civil society activists, was outlawed on allegations of threatening public order and security, while several of its leaders were subsequently arrested.Turk also criticised restrictions on internet access imposed across parts of the territory.

United Nations calls for an independent investigation into civilian deaths and human rights violations in #PoJK.

As protests continue and reports of killings and repression mount, the world body has finally taken note of Pakistan’s brutal crackdown in PoK.

Pakistan can no… pic.twitter.com/H2mj8AlL9T

— KashmirFact (@Kashmir_Fact) July 18, 2026

In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s (PoJK) Muzaffarabad, at least two people killed and 22 injured after Pakistan’s security forces today opened fire on residents protesting against the Government, demanding for basic rights. The Public Action Committee has raised a 38-point charter of demands for structural reforms, including the abolition of 12 legislative seats in the PoK assembly reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan. Protests have also been reported in Dadyal and other areas of the PoJK.   The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf unit in PoJK amplified these protests online, issuing a series of statements accusing the government of incompetence and repression. Internet and mobile phone services remained suspended in PoJK.  People in PoJK continue to suffer massive human, economic, and psychological damage as the region remains one of the most severely impacted areas by terrorism.