JKJAAC welcomes UN experts’ concerns over proscription and calls for immediate action to protect fundamental rights
UN human rights experts have raised serious concerns over the ban on JKJAAC and reports of unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests and restrictions on fundamental freedoms in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. JKJAAC welcomes this intervention and calls for the withdrawal of the ban, independent investigations, the release of those detained for peaceful activism, and unrestricted access for international media and human rights organisations.
11/3/20262 min read
The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) welcomes the joint communication issued by six United Nations human rights mandates raising serious concerns over its designation as a terrorist organisation and the reported use of counter-terrorism measures against its members and supporters in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir.
The communication, dated 4 September 2026, reference AL PAK 4/2026, questions whether the designation meets international human rights standards and expresses concern that JKJAAC may have been unjustifiably listed in retaliation for its political, labour and human rights advocacy.
The experts note that the authorities had formally engaged with JKJAAC, signed agreements with its representatives and invited it to discussions shortly before imposing the ban on 5 June 2026. They question the absence of an adequately explained factual and legal basis for the designation and raise concerns about access to effective procedures for challenging it.
The communication also raises grave concerns about reported unlawful killings, excessive force against peaceful demonstrators, arbitrary arrests, restrictions on communications and media reporting, and deprivation of medical care. It cites information alleging that at least 96 protesters and six police and paramilitary personnel had been killed since protests began in June 2026.
The experts further question the reported placement of 205 people on the Fourth Schedule, alongside restrictions affecting identity documents, bank accounts, passports and freedom of movement. These figures and incidents are presented in the communication as allegations requiring clarification and investigation, rather than final UN findings.
JKJAAC considers this communication an important intervention in defence of the people’s right to organise peacefully, demand accountability and seek improvements in public services and living conditions. Its concerns require a substantive, transparent response from the Government of Pakistan and the authorities in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir.
JKJAAC calls for:
The immediate withdrawal of its proscription and an end to the use of counter-terrorism powers against peaceful political, social and economic advocacy.
Independent, impartial and transparent investigations into all alleged unlawful killings, excessive force and other abuses, with accountability for those responsible and effective remedies for victims and their families.
The release of everyone detained solely for peacefully exercising their rights, and due process, access to lawyers and protection from ill-treatment for all detainees.
The removal of unjustified Fourth Schedule restrictions, restoration of affected identity documents, bank accounts and passports, and access to effective procedures for challenging individual listings.
The restoration of unrestricted access to communications and essential services, including medical treatment, and an end to measures that collectively penalise communities.
Unrestricted access for independent media and human rights organisations, including UN human rights mechanisms, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, to assess conditions and speak freely with affected communities.
A full public response to the UN communication, addressing its eight requests for information, alongside meaningful dialogue and implementation of agreements reached with JKJAAC.
JKJAAC reaffirms its commitment to peaceful collective action for fundamental rights, affordable electricity and flour, accountable governance and an end to unjustified privileges. Demands for dignity, public services and government accountability must be addressed through dialogue and practical action.
The authorities must now respond to the concerns raised by the UN experts with evidence, transparency and concrete measures to protect the public. Victims and their families deserve truth, justice and accountability.
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