'Return the bodies': Pakistan accused of withholding activists' bodies as PoJK protests intensify
Muzaffarabad: Political unrest continued across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) on Thursday, with protest leaders accusing Pakistani authorities of refusing to return the bodies of activists killed during recent clashes with law enforcement personnel.
According to the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), the return of the bodies has become one of the group's key demands as demonstrations continue across the region.
Activist killed during protest clash
The latest unrest follows a confrontation between protesters and security personnel near Rawalakot, during which one activist was killed and several others were reportedly injured.
Protesters identified the deceased as 32-year-old Sohban Arif, a resident of Sudhnoti district.
The incident has further intensified tensions between demonstrators and authorities, with activists demanding accountability and justice for those killed during the ongoing agitation.
Protest leaders set conditions for ending demonstrations
JAAC leaders said sit-ins and demonstrations would continue until authorities meet several key demands.
These include the return of activists' bodies to their families, the release of detained members, and the withdrawal of restrictions imposed on the organisation.
JAAC representative Imtiaz Aslam told protesters that the movement would continue until authorities revoke notifications banning the committee and address concerns surrounding civilian deaths. The group has also called for independent investigations into fatalities linked to the unrest and the withdrawal of security deployments from urban centres.
Shutdown enters third day
PoJK remained under a complete shutdown for the third consecutive day as protests spread across multiple areas.
Thousands of demonstrators reportedly gathered in and around Rawalakot despite an internet shutdown imposed across the region.
Security forces maintained a heavy presence, while authorities monitored the situation amid concerns that the protests could escalate further.
Officials indicated that the government was unlikely to extend concessions similar to those granted during previous negotiations and suggested a firmer approach towards the ongoing demonstrations.
Amnesty International criticises Pakistan's crackdown
Meanwhile, Amnesty International strongly criticised Pakistan's handling of the protests, accusing authorities of suppressing dissent and violating fundamental rights.
The human rights organisation condemned the decision to designate the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) as a "proscribed organisation" under anti-terrorism legislation.
According to Amnesty, the move represents a disproportionate restriction on freedom of association and peaceful political activity. The organisation also raised concerns about the use of force against demonstrators and called on authorities to respect the rights of protesters ahead of upcoming regional elections.
With demonstrations continuing, internet services restricted and security forces deployed across key locations, tensions remain high in PoJK.
Protest organisers have vowed to continue their agitation until their demands are addressed, while authorities appear unwilling to soften their position. The standoff has raised concerns about further instability in the region as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.
(With ANI inputs)