New Report by Amnesty International: Expresses grave concern regarding coercive restrictions, the use of force, and internet blackouts in AJK; calls for the lifting of the ban on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) and an impartial investigation into the use of force.
In a detailed and significant letter (report) addressed to Syed Iftikhar Ali Gilani, the newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, Amnesty International’s South Asia Regional Office has expressed deep concern over serious human rights violations in the region, the use of force against civilians, the ban on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), and prolonged internet shutdowns.
The letter, issued on November 13, 2026, by Isabelle Lassée, Deputy Regional Director at Amnesty International, calls upon the incumbent government to immediately ensure the fundamental rights of citizens—including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and freedom of movement.
Key Points from the Report:
Ban on the JAAC and the ‘Fourth Schedule’: Amnesty has termed the proscription of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) under the Anti-Terrorism Act—along with the inclusion of hundreds of its activists in the ‘Fourth Schedule’—a violation of international law and human rights. The organization has demanded the immediate lifting of the ban. Transparent Investigation into Firing and Fatalities in Rawalakot: The report reveals that approximately 90 people were allegedly killed during protests in June and July. Furthermore, on November 5, during a protest in Rawalakot, three more demonstrators were killed and dozens were injured due to firing by security forces. Amnesty International has called for a transparent, impartial, and prompt investigation into the alleged use of drones and live ammunition by security forces.
Arrests and Detentions Without Due Process: The organization has strongly criticized the unlawful detention of hundreds of protesters, activists, and members of the Joint Action Committee (JAC), the filing of unjustified cases under anti-terrorism laws, and the enforced disappearance of certain individuals. It has urged the immediate release of all those held in arbitrary detention.
Prolonged Internet Blackout: The report describes the extended suspension of internet and mobile network services—ongoing in the region since June 5—as a clear violation of freedom of expression. This blackout has left various areas, including Bagh, Dhirkot, Kotli, Rawalakot, and Sudhnoti, paralyzed for months. Amnesty International has demanded the full restoration of all communication services.
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