Firing on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir; At least 30 killed

200 people injured

Muzaffarabad (J&K) – More than 30 people were killed in clashes between protesters and Pakistani security forces in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Reports also indicate that 200 people were injured. The conflict erupted after the ‘Joint Awami Action Committee’ (JAAC), a social organisation leading protests over economic and political issues in the region, was banned. On the night of 5 June, a trader was killed in firing during a clash with security forces. The resulting tension led to violence in the city of Rawalakot on 7 June.

According to local media reports, activists of the social organisation had gathered at the hospital mortuary in support of the trader whose body had been taken there after he was killed in Police firing. When security forces attempted to disperse the demonstrators, activists allegedly used automatic rifles, petrol bombs and other weapons against the security forces. Six protesters were killed during the clashes.

However, residents and supporters of the JAAC have disputed the official account and claimed that the number of civilian casualties was higher. Members of the JAAC have stated that declaring the organisation a terrorist group is an act of repression.

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has expressed serious concern over the regional government’s decision to ban the JAAC under anti-terrorism laws.

30 British MPs urge the UK Government to intervene over violence in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir

On 9 June, Kashmiri Muslims staged a protest outside the Pakistani Consulate in Bradford, United Kingdom, condemning the firing carried out by security forces in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. On this occasion, at least 30 British Members of Parliament wrote to the UK Government urging it to intervene in what they described as severe human rights violations being committed by Pakistan.