India, July 14 -- India on Tuesday urged the world community to hold Pakistan accountable for what it said were "egregious abuses" committed by authorities during a crackdown on widespread public protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

The region, which is claimed by India, has witnessed massive protests since last month over high living costs, administrative apathy and political discrimination. The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which is spearheading the protests, has demanded the abolition of seats in the local assembly reserved for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir.

Tensions have escalated because of a sweeping crackdown by security forces, and more than 20 people, including protesters and police personnel, have d...