Over 80 Killed in PoK After Banned JAAC Leads Massive Election Boycott

Protests across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have intensified over the past two months, with demonstrators alleging excessive use of force by security personnel during rallies led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). According to the report, more than 100 people have been killed in clashes across the region, including around 50 deaths within a week. The demonstrations have emerged against the backdrop of ongoing elections and growing public anger over inflation, power shortages and governance issues.

A report by the BBC, which gained access to Rawalakot, highlighted the human cost of the unrest through accounts from protesters and medical workers. A doctor operating a makeshift clinic near a protest site said most of those killed or seriously injured were between 15 and 35 years of age. He said the facility could provide basic first aid, including treating wounds and controlling bleeding, but lacked the resources to manage critical injuries involving the chest, abdomen or head, which require advanced medical care.

Several residents who lost family members during the protests described the victims as peaceful demonstrators seeking basic rights. Protesters told the BBC they had taken to the streets demanding affordable flour, reliable electricity, better healthcare and education, but instead faced live ammunition during security operations. Family members of those killed said their relatives had participated in demonstrations believing they were standing up for justice rather than engaging in violence.

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The JAAC has maintained that the protests stem from economic hardship, power cuts, flour shortages and the alleged failure of authorities to implement an agreement reached with the Pakistan and PoK governments in October. The organisation has also accused security forces of using excessive force against peaceful protesters. The local administration, however, disputes these claims, describing the banned group as armed and alleging that its actions are intended to disrupt the ongoing electoral process. Authorities have also prevented protesters from marching towards the regional capital, Muzaffarabad.

The developments have drawn wider attention from political and security observers. Former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police S.P. Vaid said the current unrest reflects growing dissatisfaction within Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, while security analyst Commodore (Retd.) Dalbir Singh Sodhi argued that Islamabad is facing mounting pressure due to the protests. These assessments represent the views of the individuals quoted. The situation in PoK remains tense as demonstrations continue and competing narratives from protesters and authorities shape the evolving crisis.

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