Srinagar

Human rights activists in Kashmir have condemned the reported use of force by Pakistani authorities against civilians in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), urging the United Nations to intervene and ensure accountability.

Members of the Association of Terror Victims in Kashmir staged a protest outside the UN office, demanding justice for those allegedly affected by the recent violence.

Association chairperson Tasleema Akhter alleged that Pakistani security forces had opened fire on civilians who were participating in peaceful demonstrations in PoJK.

"We are here to raise our voice for the people of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Innocent civilians have allegedly been subjected to relentless firing by Pakistan's military. We have come seeking justice for them," she said.

Akhter stated that a memorandum would be submitted to the United Nations office, urging it to take cognisance of the situation and act to safeguard the rights of those affected.

She further claimed that the people of PoJK had been peacefully expressing their grievances when security forces resorted to force. According to her, the protesters in Kashmir would continue to amplify the concerns of people across the Line of Control and press for international attention.

Akhter also criticised Pakistan's handling of the region, alleging that funds collected globally in the name of PoJK had not benefited its residents. She said activists would persist in their campaign until justice was delivered and hoped the United Nations would take concrete steps to address the alleged human rights violations.

The protests come amid reports of growing unrest in PoJK, where demonstrators have been demanding accountability, protection of civil liberties and an end to the use of force against peaceful protesters by the administration.

According to reports, thousands of people gathered in Rawalakot and other areas of PoJK, raising slogans against what they described as Pakistan's continued control and policies in the region. Protesters also demanded justice for civilians who were reportedly killed or injured during recent clashes involving security forces.

Meanwhile, Amnesty International has criticised Pakistan's response to the protests, expressing concern over what it described as a sweeping crackdown on dissent ahead of regional elections.

The rights organisation objected to the decision to designate the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) as a "proscribed organisation" under anti-terrorism laws, calling the move unlawful and disproportionate.

READ MORE: Lal Mohammad Badshah's unwavering devotion towards the clean Ganga

Amnesty argued that the action represented a serious infringement on the rights to freedom of association and peaceful political participation. It said the crackdown intensified after talks between the authorities and the JKJAAC reportedly broke down over disagreements related to the composition of the region's legislature.