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Pakistan accused of fatally shooting 30 unarmed protesters in Kashmir
The Guardian • • world
Key Points:
- At least 30 people have reportedly been killed in Pakistan-administered Kashmir over two days amid a severe state crackdown on protests demanding electoral reforms and political rights.
- The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) alleges Pakistani security forces fired on peaceful protesters, removed dead bodies to erase evidence, and enforced a communication blackout including an internet shutdown.
- The protests began in June, opposing reserved electoral seats for refugees from Indian-administered Kashmir, which locals say undermine regional autonomy and political stability.
- Pakistani authorities deny involvement in the killings, accusing India of funding and directing the unrest, a claim rejected by JAAC and human rights groups.
- Amnesty International and the UN have called for independent investigations into the security forces' use of force, highlighting concerns over unlawful violence and human rights violations in the region.
