Fresh Crackdown in Rawalkot: Civilian Casualties Rise Amid Protests

In Rawalkot, a severe crackdown by Pakistani forces has resulted in multiple civilian deaths, including a young cricketer. The ongoing protests led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) have prompted violent clashes, with authorities proposing negotiations that include compensation for victims' families. As tensions escalate, the JAAC demands significant political reforms and the abolition of reserved seats for migrants. The situation remains critical, with fears of increasing casualties as protests continue.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 13:19 IST

Violence Erupts in Rawalkot

Rawalkot: On Tuesday, Pakistani security forces intensified their crackdown on the ongoing sit-in at the Matiyalmira Bus Terminal located in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir's Rawalakot. Tragically, Wajid Hayat, a young cricketer from Matiyalmira, was among four civilians who lost their lives due to gunfire from the security personnel. Additionally, another youth, Zahid Mughal, was killed during clashes near Balouch, Sudhanoti in PoJK. The third victim of this violent crackdown was identified as Sardar Arsalan.

The number of civilian fatalities is expected to increase as the crackdown continues. This operation was initiated by Pakistani forces early Tuesday morning after the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) declined to end their sit-in protests amidst ongoing negotiations.

During discussions at Hussainkot Rawalokot, representatives from the JAAC and the Pakistan government and army reached a tentative agreement. The Pakistani authorities proposed unconditional surrender, which included the withdrawal of the notification that designated the JAAC as a proscribed organization, as well as the retraction of both old and newly filed FIRs against its members. They also promised to abolish the Fourth Schedule and provide compensation to the families of those killed during the unrest. Furthermore, they agreed to consider postponing elections to allow the Action Committee's participation.

The JAAC has called for the abolition of the 12 reserved seats allocated to individuals who migrated from Jammu and Kashmir to other regions, arguing that these seats enable non-residents to influence local assembly decisions. The organization is also advocating for economic reforms in the area, including reduced energy costs. Established in 2023, the JAAC has quickly emerged as a significant civil rights platform, organizing protests and strikes in PoK, and gaining attention during the protests of 2024.

It is noteworthy that over two dozen protesters have been killed in the ongoing crackdown, with hundreds more reported injured.