London, August 22: Over 70 British MPs have written to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, calling for intervention in the deteriorating situation in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). They have urged an end to the ongoing atrocities committed by Pakistani forces and called for measures to ensure the safety of civilians.
The appeal from British lawmakers comes amid rising violence and abuses in the region, where hundreds have been killed or injured due to the brutal actions of Pakistani forces. The area remains under strict blockade, curfew, and a complete communications blackout.
In their letter addressed to the UN Secretary-General, the MPs expressed concern over reports of deaths and injuries, communication restrictions, arbitrary arrests, disruptions to essential supplies, and restrictions on peaceful civic and political expression. They have consistently heard from British Kashmiris who are deeply worried about the safety of their relatives and loved ones in the affected region.
The MPs welcomed the UN’s recent attention to the grave situation in POK. The letter highlighted that UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has called for peace, meaningful and inclusive political dialogue, full internet access, respect for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation into deaths arising from unrest. They also noted the Secretary-General’s deputy spokesperson’s statement that those responsible for harming individuals participating in peaceful protests should be held accountable.
The British lawmakers emphasized the need for ongoing international engagement to help de-escalate tensions, ensure accountability, and work towards a peaceful resolution in POK.
They urged the UN to support efforts to end the bloodshed, prevent further loss of life, restore and protect access to communications, and ensure the uninterrupted movement of food, medicines, and other essential supplies.
Additionally, they called on the UN to pressure Pakistani authorities to end arbitrary arrests, ensure access to due process and legal representation, and facilitate appropriate access for independent human rights observers and peaceful mediators in the region.
The MPs stated, “With these measures, respect for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation must also be upheld. Human rights should never be subject to dispute or compromise. Lasting stability cannot be achieved through restrictions or confrontation; meaningful dialogue is essential, where the rights and legitimate concerns of the Kashmiri people are heard.”
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