Pashtun human rights defender Fazal-ur-Rehman Afridi has accused Pakistan of serious and widespread human rights violations in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and has called on the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to initiate an independent international investigation.

Speaking at the sidelines of the 62nd UNHRC session in Geneva, Afridi said the situation in PoJK had become “extremely critical,” particularly after the ban on the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC). He alleged that Pakistani security forces responded with a violent crackdown that resulted in dozens of civilian deaths and hundreds of injuries.

He further claimed that restrictions on the movement of essential food supplies and medicines had worsened a growing humanitarian crisis in the region. Afridi urged the United Nations, neighbouring states, and international media to draw attention to the situation. Referring to Balochistan, he alleged that military operations and enforced disappearances are ongoing, and condemned the reported life sentence given to Baloch activist Dr Mahrang Baloch, calling the judiciary compromised and demanding her immediate release along with withdrawal of charges.

Afridi also accused security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa of using heavy weaponry such as mortar shells, helicopter gunships, and airstrikes during operations, claiming that civilians—especially women and children—have been heavily affected. He said cases of enforced disappearances have risen sharply and noted that the case of PTM member Faridullah Khan Afridi has been submitted to the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances. He concluded by urging the UNHRC to investigate the allegations, hold responsible officials accountable, and allow unrestricted access for international human rights organizations and journalists to conflict-affected areas.