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Thousands March Towards Muzaffarabad After Talks Collapse ; Pakistani Security Forces Accused of Opening Fire
Islamabad: Tensions have escalated sharply in Pakistan-administered Kashmir as a prolonged protest movement entered a new phase of unrest. Demonstrations intensified after negotiations between the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) and the local administration reportedly broke down, prompting thousands of protesters to begin a march towards Muzaffarabad.
The latest flashpoint occurred in Rawalakot, where large numbers of residents took to the streets to protest against the authorities. According to reports and claims made by protest organisers, Pakistani security forces opened fire on demonstrators, triggering violent clashes.
The Joint Awami Action Committee has alleged that nine people were killed during the firing. The reported victims include Usman Nazir, Kashif, Mohammad Ibrahim, Arsal Asghar, Haneef Mohammad Bashir, Wasim Afzal, Basit Shah and Sabir Khan, among others. These casualty figures have been claimed by the protest group and have not been independently verified.
Following the violence, the situation in Rawalakot remained extremely tense, with reports suggesting that internet services were suspended in several parts of the region as authorities attempted to contain the unrest.The ongoing agitation has also affected the political process. The Election Commission has reportedly postponed polling in the Rawalakot and Sudhnoti constituencies until August 10 due to the deteriorating security situation.
The protesters claim that the administration had earlier agreed to release detained demonstrators and withdraw criminal cases against them. However, they allege that the authorities later backed away from those commitments, prompting the protest movement to intensify once again.
The JAAC had warned that if its demands were not fulfilled by Monday afternoon, it would escalate its agitation. With no agreement reached, thousands of protesters have now begun a march towards Muzaffarabad.
The movement, which has continued for 52 days, has disrupted daily life across several parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Since early June, the region has witnessed continuous demonstrations, sit-ins, transport shutdowns, and the closure of markets and businesses, reflecting growing public dissatisfaction and deepening political tensions.
