London

Fresh allegations have been levelled against Pakistani security forces, with political activist Amjad Ayub Mirza accusing them of using excessive force against civilians in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan.

Mirza claimed that at least 17 minors were killed in incidents reported from Gilgit and Skardu, calling the situation a serious human rights concern and an example of alleged state overreach.

In a statement, he alleged that the use of force against unarmed civilians, particularly children, has created an atmosphere of fear in the region. He further claimed that authorities are attempting to suppress potential protests, especially those linked to the Awami Action Committee, and have launched a crackdown on its leadership.

According to Mirza, cases have been filed against around 15 members of the group’s leadership, including Comrade Manzar Maya. He also alleged that security forces have carried out multiple raids on the homes of activists in recent days. Among those reportedly detained are Ehsan Ali, Muhammad Nafees, Nusrat Hussain, and Abrar Bagoro.

Describing the situation as an attempt to stifle dissent, Mirza pointed to the region’s ambiguous constitutional status, arguing that it weakens accountability for such incidents. He also raised concerns over the lack of legal action in cases involving the deaths of minors, questioning the disparity between strict enforcement in minor cases and the alleged absence of accountability in serious incidents.

Referring to an incident on March 1 in Jutial, near a United Nations office, he questioned the reported use of live ammunition against civilians. He also claimed that some victims in recent unrest in Karachi were from Gilgit-Baltistan, and identified two brothers from Bagrot—Munawar Ali and Ikram Ali—as among those allegedly killed during protests.

READ MORE: Sarah Rizvi: The first Muslim woman IPS officer of Gujarat cadre

Mirza has called on the United Nations and global human rights bodies to take note of the situation, urging an independent investigation into the allegations and accountability for those responsible.