For more than two weeks, residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir have faced roadblocks and significant restrictions on the movement of goods, including food and medicines. These measures have adversely affected access to essential supplies and services, raising serious humanitarian concerns for the civilian population.

The restrictions have resulted in shortages and have limited the ability of residents to obtain basic necessities, including medical care and essential food items. Such actions, when they impede access to necessities required for civilian well-being, warrant urgent attention and review by the relevant authorities.

The people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir are entitled to access food, medicine, healthcare, and freedom of movement without undue interference. Prolonged restrictions that disrupt the delivery of essential goods place vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with medical conditions, at unnecessary risk.

Critics have compared these measures to blockade tactics used in other conflict situations, including those that have been the subject of international concern in Gaza. Regardless of the comparison, any policy that restricts civilians' access to food, medicine, and other essential goods raises significant humanitarian and human-rights concerns and should be addressed promptly.

We, the undersigned, therefore call upon the Government of Pakistan and all relevant authorities to:

1.     Immediately remove all roadblocks and restrictions that impede the delivery of food, medicines, and      other essential supplies into Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
2.    Ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare services and the transportation of medical supplies.
3.   Guarantee the free movement of residents, emergency personnel, and humanitarian assistance.
     Respect and protect the fundamental human rights and dignity of all residents of Azad Jammu and       Kashmir.
4.    Permit independent monitoring of the humanitarian situation by national and international human-     rights organizations.

The well-being of civilians must remain paramount. Access to food, medicine, healthcare, and basic necessities should never be compromised. We urge immediate action to alleviate the humanitarian hardships faced by the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and to ensure that their fundamental rights are fully respected and protected.