New Delhi, July 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
At least 20 people were reportedly killed after Pakistani security forces launched a major crackdown on protesters calling for a boycott of the ongoing legislative assembly elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), according to Indian intelligence inputs.
The action was primarily directed against the Awami Action Committee (AAC), which has been leading the campaign to boycott the multi-phase elections that commenced on Monday.
According to intelligence officials, the worst violence was reported from the Dreik Eighth area of Rawalakot, where security personnel allegedly opened fire on protesters. More than 250 people are also believed to have been injured in the firing.
Indian intelligence agencies said Pakistan has deployed a heavy security presence across PoK, including snipers at multiple locations, to contain anti-election protests. Security forces have also allegedly used live ammunition and long-range tear gas shells to disperse demonstrators.
Officials claimed the Pakistani establishment had directed security personnel to act firmly against those boycotting the polls in an attempt to suppress growing dissent in the region, which has witnessed weeks of protests.
According to intelligence sources, Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir recently held meetings with security officials and instructed them to use force if protests continued.
Officials further alleged that the demonstrations had remained largely peaceful but that protesters were being portrayed as anti-national elements to justify the use of force on national security grounds.
The crackdown has reportedly been accompanied by the suspension of internet and mobile services in several parts of PoK, while electricity and water supplies have also been disrupted in some areas.
The Awami Action Committee has appealed to journalists and international organisations to highlight the situation and draw global attention to the alleged human rights violations.
The ongoing legislative assembly elections are being held in multiple phases, with 13 seats going to the polls in the current phase. According to officials, the boycott campaign has witnessed significant public participation, fuelled by allegations that successive governments backed by Islamabad have failed to address the region’s developmental concerns.
Many residents also believe the electoral process is manipulated by Pakistan’s military establishment to install a government of its choice, officials claimed.
Despite the security crackdown, protests continue across several parts of PoK, with Rawalakot emerging as the epicentre of the agitation.
The reported use of force has also drawn criticism from within Pakistan. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman condemned the firing on protesters, accusing the establishment of failing to address the grievances of the people.
He said the people of PoK had the democratic right to protest and alleged that residents believed the elections were being rigged. Rehman urged the authorities to end the crackdown and expressed solidarity with the people of the region.
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