HRCP demands probe into Rawalakot clash deaths

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called for an impartial and independent investigation

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called for an impartial and independent investigation into reports of deaths and injuries during clashes between protesters and law enforcement personnel in Rawalakot.

The violence was reported during the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections on July 27.

The HRCP said it was deeply concerned by reports that several people had been killed and many others injured during the clashes. It stressed that the reported casualties must be investigated without political pressure.

Videos showing unrest and violence have circulated on social media. However, the details and casualty figures shown in the reports could not be independently verified.

The HRCP said authorities have a responsibility to maintain public order. However, that responsibility must not undermine the right to life or peaceful assembly.

The rights body urged authorities to immediately stop further violence. It also called for restraint while dealing with protesters.

The HRCP said anyone found responsible for unlawful use of force should be held accountable. It also stressed the need to restore public confidence ahead of the remaining phases of the AJK elections.

AJK Prime Minister Faisal Rathore also commented on the situation. He said the “blood of innocent Kashmiris” had been spilled and blamed the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) for escalating tensions.

The opposition alliance Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Ayeen Pakistan (TTAP) also condemned the reported violence. It alleged that protesters had faced excessive force during demonstrations.

The alliance said tensions in AJK had remained high for several weeks. It described the protesters’ demands as being linked to democratic rights, justice and the rule of law.

According to TTAP, protesters had been demonstrating over issues including inflation and unemployment. The alliance claimed that efforts by political figures to engage with protesters and find a peaceful solution had faced restrictions.

TTAP also referred to videos circulating online. It claimed that some footage showed unarmed people fleeing on roads amid gunfire. These claims could not be independently verified.

The opposition alliance condemned what it described as violations of democratic and human rights principles. It called on political parties and citizens to oppose violence and support peaceful political engagement.