Eight people, including six civilians and two Pakistani Rangers, have died in clashes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as protests by the Awami Action Committee intensify against route closures imposed to block a planned march to Muzaffarabad.
The violence erupted during demonstrations in Rawalakot and the Baloch sector of Sudhanoti, where security forces opened fire. Local residents identified the civilian fatalities as Zahid Mughal, Zafar Mughal, Arslan Akbar, Raqib Abid, Ihsanullah, and Wajid Hayat, the latter killed at the Mati Almaira Bus Terminal.
Military Response to PoK Protests
Pakistani authorities have sealed major transit routes to prevent the Awami Action Committee’s July 15 long march to Muzaffarabad. Security agencies warned of "immediate and strict kinetic action" against any attempt to breach the blockades.
The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) continues to demand economic, governance, and political reforms in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Despite the crackdown, its leadership has vowed to proceed with the march, setting the stage for further confrontation.
Escalation in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir
Intelligence sources indicate the Pakistani military is preparing a tactical operation to dismantle the Awami Action Committee’s leadership and suppress the protest movement. Additional reinforcements have been deployed to the region amid rising tensions.
