Islamabad, June 10: International human rights organizations have expressed deep concern over the harsh crackdown on peaceful protesters in Pakistan-administered Kashmir (POK). Criticizing the government, these organizations highlighted that internet shutdowns, mass arrests, and the use of force against demonstrators indicate a severe deterioration of human rights in the region.
Reports indicate that clashes between protesters and security forces in Rawalakot have resulted in numerous fatalities, with hundreds injured.
Tensions escalated when the Pakistani administration designated the Joint Action Committee (JAC) as a banned organization under anti-terrorism laws just before a planned protest on June 9.
The International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) condemned this decision, stating that labeling a civil organization as “terrorist” without solid grounds and cutting off the region from the outside world is a grave violation of people’s rights to organize and express themselves.
The IHRF alleged that more than 25 individuals, including a woman, lost their lives during security forces’ actions on June 8 and 9. The organization also noted that violent crackdowns on JAC protests had previously occurred in May 2024 and October 2025.
They warned that without immediate corrective measures, more lives could be lost, and the infringement of fundamental rights would continue.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International has urged the Pakistani administration to de-escalate the situation, exercise restraint, and adhere to international standards regarding the use of force. The organization emphasized that force should only be a last resort, applied under the principles of necessity and proportionality.
Isabel Lasi, the Deputy Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, stated, “Declaring a grassroots organization as a terrorist group without clear justification and shutting down communication in the region reflects a serious negligence towards human rights. Banning JAC under anti-terrorism laws is illegal and violates the right to freedom of association.”
According to Amnesty International, JAC activist Shahzeb Habib was shot during a police encounter on the night of June 5. The organization claims that there was no immediate threat to the police from Habib. He later succumbed to his injuries.
Following the transfer of Habib’s body to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Rawalakot for an autopsy, a large crowd gathered outside the hospital, leading to violent clashes between protesters and police.
Police sources reported that these clashes resulted in the deaths of eight protesters and four police officers.
Isabel Lasi expressed that the deaths of protesters and the escalating violence are extremely concerning. She called for an independent and impartial investigation into the extrajudicial killing of Shahzeb Habib and the deaths of both protesters and police officers, insisting that those responsible must be held accountable according to international human rights standards.
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