UN seeks investigations into reported Kashmir unrest deaths

The United Nations called for prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into dozens of reported deaths in Pakistan-administered Kashmir during unrest ahead of regional elections.

Jeremy Laurence, spokesman for UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk, told reporters in Geneva that Turk had appealed for calm. Laurence said dozens of people, mostly protesters but also some law enforcement personnel, had reportedly been killed since June before elections for the region's legislative assembly scheduled for July 27.

Turk wants investigations into all deaths linked to the unrest, including among protesters and security forces, Laurence said.

Supporters of the Joint Awami Action Committee, an anti-government movement calling for economic and governance reforms, have continued protests despite the group being banned under anti-terrorism laws last month. The ban was imposed allegedly over threats to public order and security.

The source said days of violent clashes between police and JAAC-led protesters also took place in the Himalayan region last September, when nine people were confirmed killed.

The UN rights office criticised the recent arrests of some JAAC leaders. It said the criminalisation of a civil society organisation and strict limits on gatherings raised serious concerns about possible infringements of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association. It said detained JAAC leaders should be allowed access to lawyers and their families, and that their due process and fair trial rights should be fully guaranteed.

Laurence also raised concerns about internet restrictions in the area, saying they disproportionately limited freedom of expression, including the ability to seek, receive and share information while tensions were high. He urged authorities to ensure full internet access throughout the territory.

Turk also called for meaningful and inclusive political dialogue to address the underlying issues and grievances of the local population.

Muslim-majority Kashmir is claimed in full by both India and Pakistan, but has been divided between them since their independence from British rule. The source said the area is highly sensitive for Pakistan's military and government after years of skirmishes and wars with India.