20 Reported Killed in PoK Protest Crackdown
At least 20 people were reported killed and dozens critically injured during a crackdown on the Joint Awami Action Committee’s Long March in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The casualties were reported as protesters converged on Rawalakot following the failure of negotiations with local authorities.
JAAC Reports 20 Deaths in Rawalakot
JAAC said the identities of 19 people killed during the unrest had been confirmed. Another unidentified person reportedly died from a gunshot wound to the head, taking the claimed death toll to at least 20.
The organisation said the unidentified victim’s body was being kept at a hospital in Palandri. It warned that the toll could rise because several injured protesters remained in critical condition.
Independent confirmation of the latest casualty figures was not immediately available.
Security Forces Accused of Using Live Fire
Rights groups and protest organisers accused Pakistani security forces of using live ammunition, tear gas and heavy shelling against demonstrators in Rawalakot.
Protest caravans had travelled from different areas of the Mirpur division before joining a sit-in in Rawalakot. The demonstrators were expected to continue towards Muzaffarabad after talks with the authorities failed.
The protest movement has demanded the release of detained activists, withdrawal of criminal cases and acceptance of wider economic and political demands.
PoK Protests Enter New Phase
The latest violence follows weeks of unrest across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir involving strikes, marches and clashes between protesters and security forces.
JAAC supporters have opposed reserved legislative seats for people living outside the region, arguing that the arrangement weakens local representation. They have also raised concerns over electricity prices, essential supplies and political rights.
Protest leaders said a gathering would be held at Shahid Chowk in Rawalakot to announce their next course of action.
