Voices Rise in J&K Against Pakistan's Brutalities in PoJK as Mirwaiz, Rights Bodies Decry Use of Force

Even as mainstream political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have largely maintained a guarded silence over the alleged brutalities committed by Pakistani authorities against residents of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), several social, religious and human rights groups have strongly condemned what they described as the inhuman and excessive use of force against unarmed civilians.

Separatist leader and chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, also expressed concern over the situation and criticized the handling of public protests by authorities across the Line of Control (LoC).

"Deeply disturbed by the news coming from across the LoC. The killing of more than a dozen protesting civilians and police personnel is extremely sad. The government there should know better than to use force to handle public grievances and demands in this manner," Mirwaiz posted on his social media handle.

"When people take to the streets to express their concerns, it is a signal that they seek to be heard. It is the responsibility of those in authority to listen, engage, and peacefully resolve the matter, rather than allow it to escalate into violence, arbitrary arrests, and loss of life," he added.

"Hope and pray that better sense prevails and the matter is handled with maturity while addressing the concerns of the people," Mirwaiz said.

Kargili Expresses Solidarity with PoJK Residents

Social activist and Co-Chairman of the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), Sajjad Kargili, also strongly condemned the use of force against peaceful protesters in PoJK and expressed solidarity with the residents of the region.

"Deeply disturbed by the deteriorating situation in Kashmir across the LoC. Reports of numerous killings and injuries emerging from the region are profoundly distressing and warrant serious concern from all those who value human life and dignity," Kargili wrote on social media.

He said the disproportionate use of force against protesters was condemnable and unacceptable.

"The expression of grievances and the demand for rights are fundamental democratic principles that must be safeguarded, not suppressed," he said.

"At this critical moment, we stand in solidarity with the people of Kashmir across the border and share in their pain and suffering. We urge the concerned authorities to exercise maximum restraint, immediately end the use of excessive force, and uphold the rights and freedoms of the civilian population," Kargili added.

Residents of J&K Living in Peace, Those in PoJK Facing Brutality: Union Minister

Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth on Wednesday said that while the people of Jammu and Kashmir were living in peace and the region was witnessing development and prosperity, residents across the Line of Control were facing violence and repression.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Seth said the people of India need not worry about their security and asserted that no adversary could challenge the country's strength.

"The citizens of the country need not worry. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, there is nothing to worry about. No one can even dare to raise an eye against India," Seth said.

IHRF Condemns Crackdown in PoJK

The International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) strongly condemned the Pakistani authorities' violent crackdown on peaceful protesters in PoJK.

The organisation criticized internet shutdowns, mass arrests and the use of lethal force, describing the situation as a serious deterioration of human rights in the region.

"The crackdown has turned lethal. On the night of June 5, activist Shahzeb Habib was shot during an encounter with police under circumstances that suggest no imminent threat to officers. He later succumbed to his injuries," the IHRF said in an official statement.

The organisation further stated that clashes erupted in Rawalakot on June 7 after Habib's body was transferred for autopsy.

"Following the transfer of his body for autopsy, clashes between protesters and law enforcement personnel resulted in the deaths of at least eight protesters and four police officers, while dozens of others were injured on both sides," the statement said.

The IHRF further alleged that on June 8 and 9, more than 25 people, including a woman, were reportedly killed by Pakistani security forces during the ongoing unrest.

The organisation called for restraint, accountability and respect for the rights of civilians, urging authorities to address public grievances through dialogue rather than force.