BJP HR cell calls for international action over PoJK civilian killings
The BJP Human Rights Cell, Jammu & Kashmir, has expressed its deep anguish and grave concern over the reports of civilian casualties and the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters in Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK), particularly in Rawalakot and adjoining areas.
Sarfraz Hamid Rather, Co-Convenor of the BJP Human Rights Cell, Jammu & Kashmir said that the disturbing reports have raised serious concerns regarding the protection of fundamental human rights in the region and warrant the immediate attention of the international community.
Rather stated that it is deeply disturbing that despite grave human rights violations, the response of global human rights institutions appears muted. He observed that human rights are universal, indivisible, and inalienable, and cannot be protected selectively on the basis of geography, political considerations, or strategic interests.
Sarfraz Hamid Rather further said that the BJP Human Rights Cell calls upon the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and other credible international human rights organizations to take immediate cognizance of the reported incidents, ascertain the facts through an independent and impartial process, and ensure that a fair, transparent, and credible investigation is conducted. He asserted that responsible must be held accountable in accordance with international law.
Rather emphasized that the people of Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir are entitled to the same fundamental rights and freedoms enjoyed by people across the world, including the right to life, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, liberty, dignity, and access to justice. He said these rights must be respected and protected without exception.
Expressing concern over the silence of the international community, Sarfraz Hamid Rather remarked that the world cannot afford to remain indifferent to reports of civilian suffering. He said that every innocent life is precious, and every kind of violence deserves a prompt, impartial, and credible inquiry. According to him, silence in the face of such allegations only weakens the global commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights.
Concluding his statement, Rather extended heartfelt sympathies to the families of all those who have reportedly lost their lives or suffered injuries. He expressed hope that truth would prevail, justice would be delivered, and those responsible for this proven violations would be held accountable.
Meanwhile, reacting to reports quoting Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif defending the killing of protesters in Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) by describing them as “enemies like India,” Gaurav Gupta, BJP Spokesperson and Convenor, International Affairs, said the remarks have exposed Pakistan’s “deeply authoritarian mindset” and its complete disregard for democratic rights, human dignity and the aspirations of the people living in PoJK.
Gupta said, “The world has now witnessed Pakistan’s true face. Pakistan that brands the people of PoJK as enemies and seeks to justify the killing of peaceful protesters has no moral authority to lecture anyone on democracy, human rights or Kashmir. Khawaja Asif’s statement is nothing short of an admission that Pakistan has chosen bullets over dialogue and repression over democracy.” Gupta further stated that the ongoing unrest in PoJK reflects the growing frustration of people who, according to him, have been denied development, democratic rights and economic opportunities for decades.