At least three people were killed and several others injured after Pakistan security forces allegedly opened fire on protesters during a pre‑dawn operation in Rawalakot in Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir, according to initial reports. The incident occurred at Eid Gah Ground during Fajr prayers, where members and supporters of the Awami Action Committee had been staging a sit‑in protest for days.
Witnesses said security personnel used direct firing, heavy shelling and tear gas to disperse the gathering, triggering panic as large parts of Rawalakot were engulfed in smoke. Protesters accused authorities of launching a violent crackdown on what they described as a peaceful movement, claiming the government was attempting to provoke unrest to undermine their demands.
The region has been under a communication blackout for 12 consecutive days, with mobile services suspended. Residents say the restrictions have heightened anxiety and made it difficult to access information and emergency assistance. Reports also highlight worsening shortages of food and medicine in affected areas, raising fears of a deepening humanitarian crisis.
The standoff between authorities and protesters has now entered its eighth day, with demonstrations intensifying despite a heavy security presence. The wider unrest has pushed the death toll from clashes to around 20, according to AFP, with officials in Kotli and Rawalakot confirming multiple fatalities linked to the ongoing turmoil.
Residents continue to struggle for essential supplies as the prolonged deadlock fuels uncertainty across the region.