Saturday, March 29, 2025
At least 12 civilians were killed and over 200 injured in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) after security forces opened fire on demonstrators during mass protests that have rocked the region for the past three days. According to local media reports, clashes broke out when security personnel used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse crowds in multiple towns.
The fatalities include five civilians in Muzaffarabad, five in Dheerkot, and two in Dadyal. Among the injured, many suffered gunshot wounds, with several in critical condition. At least three policemen were also killed in the unrest, highlighting the scale of the confrontation. Hospitals across the region have been overwhelmed, with shortages of medical supplies worsening the crisis.
What began as protests over the government’s failure to meet basic civic demands has now escalated into a broader movement against the Pakistani military’s growing influence in the region. Residents accuse Islamabad of systematically exploiting local resources while denying the population access to essential services and infrastructure.
The agitation, led by the Jammu and Kashmir United Awami Action Committee (AAC), has paralyzed life across PoK. Markets, shops, and businesses have remained shut since September 29, while mobile, internet, and landline services have been suspended. Protesters are also demanding the abolition of 12 legislative seats in PoK’s assembly reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan, arguing that these dilute the voice of residents.
The scale of violence has drawn international concern. Nasir Aziz Khan, spokesperson of the United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP), appealed to the United Nations and the global community to intervene urgently, warning that continued repression could trigger an even deeper crisis.
Political analysts describe this as the largest public uprising in PoK in recent years, underscoring growing anger against both the Pakistani administration and its military establishment. With hospitals overcrowded, communication blackouts in place, and the death toll mounting, fears of further escalation remain high.
