Amnesty International has urged Pakistani authorities to launch an independent inquiry into the reported use of force against protesters in Rawalakot, while also demanding the restoration of communications services in the region.
Amnesty International has called on Pakistani authorities to conduct a prompt, independent and transparent investigation into allegations that security personnel used force against demonstrators during protests in Rawalakot, located in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. The human rights organisation characterised the reported incidents as consistent with patterns of what it describes as unlawful violence by Pakistani authorities against protesters in the disputed region.
The group emphasised that accountability measures are essential following the alleged use of force. However, Amnesty highlighted significant obstacles to establishing a clear account of events, pointing to ongoing restrictions on internet and mobile services in the affected area. These communications blackouts are hampering independent verification of the situation and preventing external observers from assessing developments on the ground.
In addition to calling for an investigation, Amnesty has urged Pakistani authorities to immediately restore internet and mobile connectivity in Rawalakot. The organisation also requested that media organisations and independent observers be granted access to the affected area to enable proper documentation and monitoring of the situation.
