Farooq Abdullah Urges UN Intervention After Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir Killings

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah called on the Indian central government and the United Nations Human Rights Commission on July 29, 2026, to address escalating violence in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Abdullah questioned why India remains silent on human rights violations in the territory if it maintains that the region is an integral part of the country.

Reports indicate a surge in lethal force used by Pakistani security forces against civilians. On Monday, Pakistani troops opened fire on a march organized by the Joint Awami Action Committee traveling from Rawalakot to Muzaffarabad, resulting in deaths reported between 14 and over 40 people. The Joint Awami Action Committee claims that 67 people have been killed since June 5 as protests intensify against the reservation of 12 legislative assembly seats for refugees and alleged electoral manipulation.

In response to the unrest, Pakistani authorities revoked the registrations of 13 private schools, alleging staff and student involvement in protests. The UN Human Rights Office expressed concern over the criminalization of civil society and restrictions on public gatherings. These developments prompted British Kashmiris to protest outside the Pakistani Consulate in Birmingham. Abdullah also warned the Indian government against backtracking on promises made to protesting youth in Jammu and Kashmir, where students face harassment and arrests.