Human Rights Council of PoJK raises alarm over alleged torture of elderly leader

Muzaffarabad [PoJK], August 24 (ANI): The Human Rights Council of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir has expressed "profound concern" over the arrest and alleged custodial torture of Raja Hanif, a merchant leader over the age of 65 years, from Ranga village in Dheerkot Tehsil.
In a post on X, the Council said Hanif was arrested on August 19 and alleged that "continuous torture" has been inflicted upon him during custody. The Council said allegations of "police brutality and abusive treatment" reported by eyewitnesses "demand immediate, impartial, and transparent investigations."
It further stated that "torture of any person in custody constitutes a grave violation of fundamental human rights and the rule of law." The Council demanded that Hanif's "safety and medical examination be immediately ensured" and called for the alleged torture to be stopped. It also demanded that legal action be taken against officials responsible for the alleged abuse "in accordance with the law."
Reiterating its position on the prevailing situation in PoJK, the Human Rights Council said it remains "steadfast" in its stance that a sustainable solution "does not lie in force, confrontation, or further escalation."
Instead, the Council called for "meaningful negotiations and a peaceful political process." "The Council demands that all relevant parties immediately come to the negotiating table," the post said, urging them to demonstrate "responsibility, tolerance, and seriousness. It also called on all sides to "prioritise public safety" and take practical steps to restore "peace and security in the region."
The Council further stressed that "further loss of life is not a solution to any problem," and said that "negotiations, justice, and peace are the path forward."
The situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir remains marked by political tensions, public unrest and concerns over governance and civil liberties. Disputes over rights, economic issues and administrative policies have periodically triggered protests and demonstrations. Rights groups have called for greater accountability, peaceful dialogue and protection of fundamental freedoms amid continuing tensions in the region. (ANI)