The Human Rights Commission has expressed deep concern over the government’s decision to ban the Joint Public Action Committee in Pakistan-administered Kashmir under anti-terrorism laws.
The ban comes at a time when the committee had called for public protests on June 9.
According to HRCP, the use of anti-terrorism laws against a group that has been active in political, socio-economic demands raises serious questions.
The commission said the move raises concerns about the shrinking space for peaceful assembly and dissent in the region.
The organization has warned that such measures indicate a potential crackdown on civil liberties.
HRCP has said that with elections in Kashmir approaching in July, it is crucial to ensure full protection of fundamental rights. These rights include freedom of expression, the right to organize and the right to peaceful assembly.
According to the commission, it is essential for the credibility of the democratic process that citizens be allowed to express their views and protest peacefully without fear.
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