In the wake of escalating unrest in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, Babu Ram Pant, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for South Asia, today emphasized the preventable nature of the situation and urged authorities to prioritize the cessation of further violence. Pant called for an immediate and impartial investigation into the fatalities and injuries, scrutinizing the excessive use of force by law enforcement, and demanded accountability for those responsible.

The crackdown on demonstrators is not unprecedented in the region. Pakistani officials are reminded of their international human rights obligations to respect and protect the right to peaceful assembly. Even when demonstrations turn violent, peaceful protestors should not be hindered. Authorities are urged to evaluate circumstances individually and use non-violent strategies before resorting to force, ensuring any force used is necessary and proportionate.

The comprehensive communication shutdown has compounded the crisis, causing panic, limiting movement, affecting essential services, and heightening misinformation risks. Amnesty International calls for the immediate lifting of the communication ban to restore freedoms of expression and assembly, and to ensure access to information.

In the backdrop of these developments, official reports indicate injuries to nearly 172 police officers and 50 demonstrators. Protest leaders claim over 100 protestors have suffered injuries due to police use of lethal measures.

The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), spearheading the protests, demands civil liberties and political rights, including the cessation of special privileges for government officials, restoration of student unions, and access to free healthcare and education. Despite engaging in dialogue with the government, the JKJAAC initiated a region-wide strike on 29 September, with authorities imposing a communication blackout from 28 September.