Human rights panel faults Pakistan's response to PoJK unrest; warns of excessive force, shrinking civic space

Growing distrust and expression curbs fueled unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. State authorities responded confrontationally, allegedly using disproportionate force against protesters. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan noted conflicting accounts of the violence. Concerns remain over the wider electoral environment due to security and communication restrictions. An independent investigation into deaths and injuries has been called for by the commission.