Pakistan Rights Body Alarmed by Election Violence in Occupied Kashmir

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has voiced deep concern over reported fatalities and injuries resulting from clashes between law enforcement and protesters during the first phase of elections in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The violence occurred in Rawalakot on the day of the legislative elections.

In a statement on X, HRCP stated it was "deeply alarmed" by the reports of deaths and injuries. The commission highlighted that the reported deaths serve as a "stark reminder of the human cost of the tensions" in the region. While acknowledging the authorities' duty to maintain public order, HRCP stressed that this must not infringe upon the right to life or freedoms of peaceful assembly and expression.

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deeply alarmed

HRCP has demanded an immediate cessation of the violence and called for a prompt, impartial, and independent investigation into the reported deaths and injuries. The commission also appealed to authorities to exercise restraint as the remaining election phases approach. It emphasized a shift from confrontation towards protecting lives and rebuilding public trust in the electoral process.

The incidents follow escalating unrest across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Reports indicate that security forces opened fire on demonstrators in Rawalakot after protests became tense, leading to casualties. Similar use of force against protesters has been reported in Mirpur, with allegations of live ammunition being used. These events have drawn widespread criticism from rights groups and political organizations, who are demanding accountability and an independent inquiry into the use of force.

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must never come at the expense of the right to life or the freedoms of peaceful assembly and expression.