India, Aug. 9 -- Expressing concern over the security situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has highlighted the need for accountability for actions against people engaging in peaceful protest.

The Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) region has been witnessing protests for several months over 12 contentious refugee seats, triggering a crackdown by security forces. The protests intensified with elections to the so-called assembly in the region starting at the end of last month amid allegations of widespread rigging.

According to the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a collective of activist groups, more than 40 people were killed during the first phase of polls on July 27. Be...