Opinion | Pakistan’s Military Action in Occupied Kashmir Justice, Human Rights Violations and the Need for International Response

Recently, the incidents that have taken place in the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) have again raised concerns in the international community about the growing human rights violations in the region. According to reports, the Pakistani army has been accused of firing at civilians protesting against the injustices committed by the government.

The protests started due to several reasons, including economic difficulties, rising inflation, unemployment, heavy taxes imposed and lack of political voice. The initial protests by the people have taken the shape of a movement for justice and human rights.

The situation escalated, leading to clashes between the protesters and security forces. Hundreds of people lost their lives and many sustained severe injuries in these clashes. It has left many families mourning their deceased relatives. These incidents have increased the rage among the people because of such human rights abuses by the security forces. Arrests, censorship, restrictions on the use of social media, and civil liberties have exacerbated the human rights issues faced by the residents.

In addition to the victims of this incident, there is the issue of the allegations of abuse, which have become part of a wider pattern of practices that have increased public fears and mistrust. Many families are still seeking answers as to how their family members died or were injured. The issue of transparency and accountability in these cases has come up, along with fears on the part of the residents about coming forward about any problems, for fear of retribution. There is the matter of the loss of innocent civilian life in times of unrest, which, in addition to being a humanitarian crisis, leaves lasting impacts on the individuals involved. Witnessing violence, losing one’s breadwinner, and being in a state of constant tension are just some of the issues facing these people. It is important, above all else, to remember that human life needs to be respected at all costs. Humanitarian workers need to respect the rule of law, as well as ensure that all issues of alleged abuse are looked into.

PoGB went to elections on 7 June, while the date of the election for PoJK is yet to be revealed. Reports are saying that the poll may take place towards the end of 2026. Before the election, PoJK had been experiencing protests from the people of the area because of their opposition to Islamabad’s system of governance and control. These protests have also reflected increasing discontent among citizens over Pakistan’s inability to address certain public demands. This explains why the political climate of the region continues to be tense and poses serious doubts on the issue of governance and public trust before the upcoming elections.

However, the situation deteriorated into fights involving both sides. Many people died and sustained serious injuries during the confrontations. This left many people mourning the loss of their loved ones. Such acts of brutality towards the citizens by the security personnel have only fueled anger among them. In addition, there are many other human rights abuses that include arrests, suppression of freedom of expression, social media censorship, and curtailment of freedoms.

Another matter of concern raised by these protests is that of the violation of the human rights of the inhabitants of Pakistani-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The violation of these basic human rights is something that human rights organizations are particularly sensitive towards. According to international law and human rights conventions, every individual possesses fundamental human rights such as the right to freely express themselves, assemble peacefully, and take part in politics.

In addition, the restriction on communications imposed by the government is another aspect of the matter. In the digital world, there is a need for the provision of means of communication and access to information. It makes people more anxious during any unrest or agitation.

The people of Pakistani-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan need to be heard out. Their hopes, grievances and worries will not remain unacknowledged indefinitely. Peace and stability will only come through dialogue, justice, inclusion and respect for human dignity. Violence will temporarily subdue those who protest, but it will not be able to address the underlying reasons for popular discontent.

The international community, the United Nations and human rights bodies across the globe need to take heed and begin to look at the situation. The genuine aspirations and grievances of the people of Pakistani-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan deserve recognition and attention. Investigations into alleged human rights violations should be facilitated, and all efforts should be taken to protect the civilian population.

When the world talks about human rights and democracy, the principles of democracy and human rights should apply universally without exception. The plight of any people, no matter where they are located and what political issues they face, needs to be responded to by the global community.

The current events in Pakistani-occupied Jammu & Kashmir make us realize that peace cannot be created through oppression and repression. A sustainable peace can be brought about only by giving people their due power and making sure that their rights and representation in decision-making are guaranteed.

The people of Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan need to be given their due justice. They should be given dignity. They should not have to live in fear and oppression. What they need the most is a future where their hopes and dreams can come true.

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