UN Condemns Pakistan Crackdown in Kashmir Ahead of Elections

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk called for calm and impartial investigations into dozens of deaths in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The unrest, which began in June and escalated ahead of July 27 Legislative Assembly elections, has claimed over 30 lives among both protesters and law enforcement personnel.

The UN criticized the Government of Pakistan for banning the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC)—a civil society group of traders, students, and activists—under anti-terrorism laws. Turk condemned the criminalization of the organization, the arrest of its leaders, and the imposition of internet blackouts in the region. He urged the restoration of full connectivity and inclusive political dialogue to address local grievances.

Tensions peaked after a July 14 deadline expired, leading the JAAC to mobilize thousands for a long march toward Muzaffarabad. Following negotiations between Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir and JAAC leader Umar Nazir Kashmiri, the march was suspended until July 21. The JAAC has warned that the march will resume on July 22 if the government fails to meet its demands for economic and governance reforms.