PoK Atrocities Reach UK Parliament As MPs Press Pakistan Over Civilian Killings

Last Updated:June 26, 2026, 12:37 IST

British lawmakers have raised evidence of alleged civilian killings and security force abuses in PoK, while urging the UK government to take stronger action against Pakistan.

British lawmakers have raised concerns over alleged human rights violations and civilian killings in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), increasing pressure on the UK government to step up diplomatic engagement with Islamabad, CNN-News18 has learnt.

The situation in PoK was discussed during meetings involving British parliamentarians, local political leaders and members of the overseas Kashmiri community. Participants presented evidence of alleged abuses by Pakistani security forces and sought accountability for the deaths of civilians during the continuing unrest.

The developments have brought the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistan military, led by Field Marshal Asim Munir, under growing scrutiny in British political circles.

British MPs have also confronted Pakistan’s High Commissioner over the situation in the region and raised the matter with Lord Falconer, the UK’s Minister for the Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan, according to people familiar with the discussions.

Lawmakers urged the British government to intensify its diplomatic efforts and take up the allegations of civilian killings and the use of force against protesters directly with Islamabad.

Andrew Pakes, the Labour MP for Peterborough, vowed to raise the human rights situation at the highest levels of the British government. He said he would not remain silent over allegations of abuses in PoK and would continue advocating for peace and reconciliation.

Pakes is also reportedly working with several other MPs to explore collective and meaningful action over the crisis.

The British parliamentarian claimed that statements threatening UK lawmakers had been issued by sections of the Pakistani establishment because of their advocacy on Kashmir. He maintained that such alleged pressure would not deter him from speaking out.

During the discussions, participants questioned why the UK had not considered imposing Magnitsky-style sanctions on Pakistani officials accused of serious human rights abuses.

“This is the only thing that will stop this regime from committing human rights abuses," a member of the audience said while calling for targeted action against those allegedly responsible.

Magnitsky-style sanctions allow governments to impose asset freezes and travel restrictions on individuals accused of serious human rights violations or corruption.

Evidence relating to alleged civilian deaths and abuses by security personnel in PoK was also handed over to British political representatives during an urgent meeting.

Peterborough City Council leader Dr Shabina Qayyum backed the democratic right of people to hold peaceful protests across the UK over the situation in PoK.

“We are stronger together," Qayyum said, urging campaigners to support their claims with evidence and pursue coordinated advocacy.

British lawmakers and members of the overseas Kashmiri community have continued to raise concerns over what they describe as a siege in PoK. They have sought an investigation into the alleged civilian killings, accountability for the use of force and a stronger response from the UK government.

The latest intervention comes amid continuing protests in PoK over political rights, jobs, healthcare, education and administrative reforms. Protesters have accused the Pakistani authorities of responding to their demands with repression and violence.

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Manoj Gupta

Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

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