Civil unrest over inflation and governance issues escalates into one of the deadliest confrontations in recent years; communication blackout deepens concerns
Muzaffarabad, June 10: Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has witnessed a major escalation in unrest after a sweeping security crackdown on anti-government protesters reportedly left at least 27 to 30 civilians dead and hundreds injured. Local activists and independent observers fear that the casualty figure could rise further amid restrictions on communication and movement in several districts.
The latest turmoil erupted after authorities imposed a ban on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a prominent civil society platform that had been spearheading protests against soaring inflation, rising electricity costs, unemployment, and what demonstrators describe as long-standing political and economic discrimination.
According to reports emerging from the region, security forces launched a large-scale operation to disperse protest gatherings in several towns. Witness accounts allege that troops used live ammunition against crowds, leading to heavy casualties and widespread panic.
One of the most serious incidents reportedly occurred in Rawalakot, where tensions flared during the funeral procession of a slain activist. Demonstrators gathered outside a hospital morgue were allegedly fired upon, triggering further anger and expanding the scope of the protests.
Human rights activists claim that more than 200 people sustained injuries during the crackdown, while over 500 individuals, including several young protesters, were taken into custody. Families of detainees have expressed concern over the lack of information regarding their whereabouts.
Reports also indicate that thousands of additional security personnel were deployed from different parts of Pakistan to reinforce local forces and restore control in the troubled region. Authorities simultaneously imposed restrictions on mobile services and internet connectivity in parts of Muzaffarabad and adjoining districts, a move critics say has hampered the flow of information and complicated efforts to independently assess the situation on the ground.
Adding to the controversy are unverified allegations circulating among local activist groups that some police personnel who allegedly refused to act against peaceful demonstrators faced punitive action. These claims have not been independently confirmed.
The unrest has drawn attention beyond the region. India has criticised the reported use of force against civilians and called for accountability and protection of human rights in the territory. The developments have also sparked reactions among Kashmiri diaspora organisations abroad. In London, several groups reportedly organised demonstrations and symbolic funeral prayers outside Pakistan’s diplomatic mission to express solidarity with those killed during the violence.
Political observers note that the current crisis reflects deeper frustrations within PoJK over economic hardships, governance issues, and demands for greater political representation. Many fear that unless meaningful dialogue is initiated, the situation could further destabilise the region and intensify public resentment.
With communication restrictions still in place and conflicting accounts emerging from the ground, calls are growing from civil society organisations and international human rights groups for an impartial investigation into the deaths, injuries, and alleged rights violations reported during the crackdown.
