PoK has once again become the center of international attention after reports of a deadly crackdown during the recent legislative assembly elections. According to claims made by local activists, at least 30 people were killed within 48 hours amid political unrest, raising fresh concerns about the security situation and human rights in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
The developments have triggered criticism from rights organizations and members of the overseas Kashmiri community, with calls for an independent investigation into the reported use of force against protesters.
Political Tensions Escalate During Pok Elections
The latest unrest unfolded during legislative assembly elections in Pok, where voting took place under allegations of internet restrictions, political instability, armed clashes, and administrative irregularities.
The Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a political movement active in the region, claimed that Pakistani security forces were responsible for the deaths of at least 30 people over two days. According to the group, 25 people lost their lives on Monday, while five more were killed on Tuesday.
The reported violence has intensified concerns over the handling of demonstrations and election-related tensions in the region.
Amnesty International Calls for Independent Investigation
The reported incidents have drawn international attention, including comments from Amnesty International.
Isabel Lacey, Acting Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, said the reported events appear consistent with long-standing allegations of excessive force being used against protesters in the region.
She urged Pakistani authorities to order an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into the reported use of force by security personnel. Lacey also stressed that ongoing restrictions on internet and mobile communication make it difficult for independent observers and journalists to verify developments on the ground.
According to Amnesty, restoring communication services and allowing media organizations and independent monitors access to the region are essential steps toward ensuring transparency.
Internet Services Suspended Since June 5
Authorities in Pok reportedly suspended internet services on June 5 as tensions continued to rise.
Critics argue that instead of opening dialogue with protesters, the administration adopted a strict security approach. The communication blackout has remained a major concern for rights groups, who say it limits the free flow of information and restricts independent reporting from the region.
The JAAC-led movement has faced sustained action from authorities over the past several weeks. Officials have also imposed a ban on the organization under Pakistan’s anti-terrorism laws.
According to figures cited by the movement, at least 40 people have died during recent protests, including 34 demonstrators and six security personnel. These claims have not been independently verified.
Why Did the JAAC Movement Begin?
The JAAC movement initially emerged with a specific political demand concerning representation in the Pok legislative assembly.
The organization sought the removal of 12 reserved assembly seats allocated for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir who settled in mainland Pakistan after the partition in 1947.
Over time, the campaign evolved into a broader political movement challenging Pakistan’s governance of the region. Protesters expanded their demands to include greater regional autonomy and voiced opposition to Islamabad’s administrative control over Pok.
The movement has also accused Pakistani authorities of policies that, according to its leaders, have increased instability in the region.
Human rights observers have suggested that the ban imposed on JAAC further heightened political tensions ahead of the elections.
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Death of JAAC Founder’s Brother Adds to Tensions
According to a report by ANI, JAAC core committee member Imtiaz Aslam alleged that Usman Nazir, the younger brother of JAAC founder Umar Nazir Kashmiri, was killed during an operation carried out by Pakistani security forces.
The reported death has become another flashpoint in the ongoing political dispute and has intensified criticism from supporters of the movement.
Demonstrations Held in the United Kingdom
The unrest in Pok also sparked protests outside Pakistan’s Consulate in Bradford, England.
Supporters of JAAC gathered to express concern over the reported violence and called for greater international attention to the situation. Demonstrators demanded accountability for the reported killings and urged global human rights organizations to closely monitor developments in the region.
According to JAAC, at least 67 people have been killed in Pok since the beginning of June. These figures have been released by the organization and have not been independently confirmed by international investigators.
International Focus Remains on Pok
The situation in Pok continues to attract global attention as questions grow over election-related violence, restrictions on communication, and the treatment of political protesters.
Human rights organizations have renewed calls for impartial investigations, restoration of internet services, and unrestricted access for journalists and independent observers. As tensions remain high, international observers are closely watching how authorities respond to growing demands for transparency, accountability, and political dialogue in the region.