Statement for the International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) Date: June 9, 2026 Subject: Pakistan: Designation of Peaceful Protest Movement as “Terrorist” Organization Marks Dangerous Escalation in Jammu and Kashmir Crackdown The International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) strongly condemns the Pakistani authorities’ violent and sweeping crackdown on peaceful protests in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, which has included an internet shutdown, mass arbitrary arrests, and the deadly use of force. This escalation represents a grave deterioration of human rights in the region. On June 5, 2026, regional authorities issued a notification designating the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC)—a grassroots movement advocating for the economic and political rights of the local population—as a “proscribed organization” under the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Terrorism Act, 2014. Branding a civil society body as “terrorist” on vague grounds, while simultaneously sealing the region from outside scrutiny, constitutes a disproportionate and unlawful violation of the right to freedom of association. Concurrent actions—including the suspension of all internet and mobile networks until June 12, a travel advisory ordering outsiders to leave the region, and the deployment of federal paramilitary troops—have effectively sealed Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, severely impeding the flow of information and reports of abuses. Journalists covering the protests, such as Sohrab Barkat, have been arrested under electronic crimes laws for allegedly “promoting” the JKJAAC. The crackdown has turned lethal. On the night of June 5, activist Shahzeb Habib was shot during an encounter with police under circumstances that suggest no imminent threat to officers; he later died from his injuries. On June 7, following the transfer of his body for autopsy, clashes between protesters and law enforcement in Rawalakot resulted in the deaths of at least eight protesters and four police officers, with dozens more injured on both sides. On 8th and 9th June 2026, reportedly more than 25 people, including a woman have been killed by the Pakistani security forces. The IHRF calls for: 1. An independent, transparent inquiry into the alleged extrajudicial killing of Shahzeb Habib and all unlawful deaths of protesters and police officers in Rawalakot, with those responsible held accountable in line with international human rights standards. 2. Immediate de-escalation and strict adherence to international principles on the use of force—only as a last resort, and with necessity and proportionality. 3. The immediate lifting of the unlawful ban on the JKJAAC and the restoration of internet and mobile networks, as well as freedom of peaceful assembly and association. 4. Urgent steps to facilitate peaceful assemblies ahead of the announced regional elections on July 27, 2026, in compliance with Pakistan’s international human rights obligations. The International Human Rights Foundation remains deeply concerned by the recurring pattern of crackdowns on JKJAAC protests, including deadly violence in May 2024 and October 2025. Without prompt corrective action, the authorities risk further loss of life and a complete erosion of fundamental rights in the region. Issued by the International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) June 9, 2026