New Delhi, July 29 (HS): The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has appealed to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and international human rights organisations for an independent investigation into the alleged crackdown by Pakistani security forces on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), according to government sources.

The sources said Pakistani security forces allegedly used lethal force against JAAC members and supporters during a long march from Rawalakote to Muzaffarabad. According to the sources, 20 civilians were killed and more than 33 protesters sustained injuries during the operation.

Government sources said Usman Nazir, brother of JAAC Central Committee member Umar Nazir, was among those killed in the alleged crackdown.

According to the sources, the JAAC has urged the UNHRC and international human rights organisations to seek an immediate and independent inquiry into the alleged killings, ensure an immediate halt to the use of lethal force against civilians, facilitate medical assistance for the injured and ensure accountability for any excessive or unlawful use of force.

The sources further claimed that the first phase of regional elections in Mirpur Division witnessed less than 10 per cent voter turnout, citing independent assessments. They said the figure differed significantly from the official turnout of 45 per cent announced by the Pakistani authorities. According to the sources, major towns observed shutdowns in response to the JAAC's boycott call.

Government sources also said organisations, including the Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF), have condemned the crackdown and appealed to student organisations, trade unions, socialist groups and human rights organisations to stand in solidarity with the people of PoJK.

The sources claimed that Pakistani security forces continue to maintain a heightened presence in Rawalakote, Muzaffarabad and other major areas to prevent fresh gatherings. They added that the possibility of further protests, shutdowns and confrontations remains high in the coming days.

According to the sources, communication restrictions and suspension of services continue across several parts of PoJK, allegedly affecting normal civic life and restricting the flow of information from the region.

There was no immediate response from the Pakistani authorities to these claims.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar