The Human Rights Council of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir has expressed concern over prolonged protests and unrest in the region, particularly in Rawalakot and the districts of Poonch and Sudhnooti. The rights body said the demonstrations have now completed 100 days, creating uncertainty and affecting the wider region.

 

It warned that any further delay in meaningful dialogue could deepen public frustration, mistrust and instability. The council has urged the Pakistani authorities and all concerned stakeholders to begin immediate and result-oriented talks, exercise restraint and pursue a peaceful and democratic resolution.

 

In a separate statement, the council raised concern over the arrest of Javed Arif Abbasi, a member of the District Council in Bagh. It said peacefully raising issues related to public rights is a fundamental democratic right. The council called for any charges against Abbasi to be dealt with through a transparent legal process, and said he should be released without delay if there are no clear legal grounds for his detention. The rights body said differences of opinion should be addressed through dialogue and the law, rather than through arrest or pressure. The Human Rights Council PoJK is an independent, non-governmental and non-profit human rights organisation focused on protecting human dignity.