Islamabad, July 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
At least 20 people were killed and dozens of others injured as Pakistani security forces allegedly cracked down on participants of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC)-led Long March in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), according to organisers and local groups. Several of the injured are reported to be in critical condition, raising fears that the death toll could increase.
In a statement posted on X, the JAAC said its Long March caravans had reached Rawalakot, where 19 victims had been identified, while another deceased person, who reportedly sustained a bullet injury to the head, remained unidentified at Palandri Hospital. The organisation said protesters had gathered at Chandni Chowk in Rawalakot and that a public meeting at Shahid Chowk would determine the future course of the agitation.
The march was launched after negotiations between JAAC and Pakistani authorities reportedly failed to produce an agreement. The protest began in the Mirpur Division on Sunday, with participants converging at Rawalakot before moving towards Muzaffarabad on Monday.
The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) also expressed concern over the reported violence, alleging that Pakistani security forces used live ammunition, heavy shelling and tear gas against peaceful demonstrators in Rawalakot. The organisation appealed to the United Nations, international human rights bodies and democratic governments to intervene and press for an immediate end to the use of force against civilians.
The ongoing protests have emerged as a major challenge to Islamabad’s administration in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Reports from the region indicate continuing restrictions, including curfews, communication blackouts and intensified security operations.
Last month, India raised the issue of the reported crackdown in PoK, with Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stating that reports suggested several people had been killed and many others injured. He said India hoped the international community would hold Pakistan accountable for alleged human rights abuses in the region.
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