A fresh wave of violence has swept across Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (POK) after Pakistani Army personnel and Rangers opened fire on demonstrators in Rawalakot, killing at least 16 protesters and injuring more than 37 others, according to local accounts. The shootings occurred during a massive rally against soaring electricity tariffs, rising prices, and what residents describe as decades of political and economic neglect.
Witnesses said tens of thousands had gathered at Eidgah Ground when security forces suddenly opened fire, triggering chaos as people fled in panic. Hospitals in the region reportedly struggled to cope with the influx of injured civilians. The crackdown has further inflamed public anger, with protests spreading to towns including Khai Gala, where women, children, and elderly citizens joined demonstrations demanding justice.
The unrest, which began on 5 June, has now resulted in 53 civilian deaths, including the Rawalakot casualties. Authorities have responded with sweeping measures:
- A ban on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), the civil society group leading the protests
- A ₹1 crore bounty on protest organisers
- Mass arrests and movement restrictions
- Internet shutdowns across several districts
Residents say the crackdown has only intensified resentment, with many accusing Islamabad of treating POK as a colony rather than a self‑governed region. Protesters continue to demand affordable electricity, subsidised wheat and rice, and basic rights they argue have been denied for decades.
The situation remains volatile, with fears of further escalation as security forces tighten control and demonstrators vow to continue their movement.