International Desk: Pakistan is facing renewed criticism following a deadly crackdown in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), where at least six civilians were reportedly killed after Pakistani security forces opened fire on protesters in Rawalakot. The incident has intensified allegations of heavy-handed state repression and deepened public anger across the region.
According to reports, violence erupted near the New Bus Terminal in Rawalakot after Pakistani security forces launched an operation to disperse demonstrators. Witnesses and local reports allege that security personnel used live ammunition during the clashes, resulting in the deaths of six civilians. The victims have been identified as Zahid Mughal, Zafar Mughal, Arsalan Akbar and Wajid Hayat, among others. Wajid Hayat was reportedly killed near the Matiyal Meera Bus Terminal.
The latest violence comes amid growing discontent over what protesters describe as years of political suppression, economic neglect and human rights abuses under Pakistan’s administration in PoK. A day before the incident, members of the PoK diaspora gathered outside the White House in Washington, DC, accusing Islamabad of systematically violating civil liberties and demanding international intervention.
The demonstrators called for the withdrawal of Pakistani military forces from civilian areas, alleging that residents have endured prolonged internet blackouts, restrictions on free expression and intimidation. They further claimed that nearly four million people have been effectively isolated from the outside world due to repeated communication shutdowns.
Protesters also appealed for humanitarian access through the Line of Control (LoC) via the Poonch and Doda sectors, citing reports of worsening food shortages. According to the claims raised during the demonstrations, more than 57 per cent of households are facing food insecurity, with the figure reportedly rising to around 90 per cent in remote mountainous areas. Child malnutrition and maternal mortality are also said to be worsening.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said the protests reflect what he described as Pakistan’s long-standing record of systematic exploitation, denial of fundamental rights and administrative repression in PoK. He alleged that, rather than responding to the legitimate grievances of local residents, Pakistani authorities have relied on police action, internet shutdowns, restrictions on essential supplies such as food and medicines, and the use of lethal force against unarmed civilians.
India has urged the international community to hold Pakistan accountable over the reported treatment of civilians and to press for the protection of fundamental rights in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
