The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed serious concern over the growing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) ahead of the region’s legislative assembly elections scheduled for July 27. The agency has called for impartial investigations into recent deaths linked to protests and urged authorities to restore internet services and protect fundamental rights.

In a statement issued from Geneva, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk appealed for calm and stressed the need for meaningful political dialogue to address the concerns of local residents.

UN Calls for Independent Investigations

According to the UN rights office, dozens of people, including protesters and security personnel, have reportedly lost their lives since June amid escalating tensions before the upcoming elections.

The agency urged authorities to conduct prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into every reported death and ensure accountability wherever necessary.

Concern Over Ban on Protest Group

The UN also raised concerns over the ban imposed on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a coalition comprising traders, transport workers, students, lawyers and civil society members that has led recent demonstrations.

Authorities reportedly declared the organisation illegal under anti-terrorism laws, alleging threats to public order. Several of its leaders have also been detained.

The rights office warned that criminalising a civil society group and restricting peaceful gatherings could undermine the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association.

Appeal to Restore Internet Services

The UN urged authorities to fully restore internet access across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, saying communication restrictions limit people’s ability to access and share information, particularly during a politically sensitive period.

The agency noted that uninterrupted communication is essential for transparency and the protection of civil liberties.

Fair Trial Rights Emphasised

The UN further called for detained JAAC leaders to receive access to legal counsel and family members while ensuring their right to due process and a fair trial is respected.

Focus Ahead of July 27 Elections

With the legislative assembly elections approaching, the UN has encouraged authorities to pursue inclusive political dialogue aimed at reducing tensions and addressing public grievances.

The agency maintained that protecting human rights, ensuring transparency and allowing peaceful democratic participation remain essential as the region prepares to vote.

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FAQs

1. Why has the UN expressed concern over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir?
The UN cited rising violence, reported deaths, internet restrictions and curbs on civil liberties ahead of the July 27 elections.

2. What did the UN ask Pakistan to do?
The agency called for impartial investigations into protest-related deaths, restoration of internet services and inclusive political dialogue.

3. What is the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC)?
JAAC is a coalition of traders, students, lawyers, transporters and activists that has been leading protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

4. Why was JAAC banned?
Authorities reportedly banned the group under anti-terrorism laws, alleging it threatened public order and security.

5. What concerns did the UN raise about internet restrictions?
The UN said internet shutdowns limit freedom of expression and restrict access to information during a sensitive political period.

6. When are the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir elections scheduled?
The legislative assembly elections are scheduled to be held on July 27, 2026.

7. What did the UN say about detained protest leaders?
It urged authorities to ensure they have access to legal representation, family members and receive fair trial protections.

8. What is the UN’s overall recommendation?
The UN has called for investigations into all reported deaths, restoration of internet access, protection of civil rights and meaningful political dialogue before the elections.