The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) today called on the Pakistani authorities to exercise restraint and refrain from using force against peaceful protesters participating in the Long March organised by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) from Rawalakot to Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

The UKPNP said that over 40 people lost their lives since June 5 amid ongoing unrest in the occupied territory. This march came after talks between JAAC and Pakistani authorities failed to produce a mutually acceptable outcome, prompting a renewed call for public mobilisation. The organisation urged the United Nations, the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, and the wider international community to actively support efforts aimed at protecting civilians and promoting a peaceful resolution of the dire situation in PoJK.