MUZAFFARABAD — Ten people, including two law enforcement personnel and eight activists, lost their lives on Tuesday following intense clashes in the Poonch division of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
The violence broke out a day before a planned “long march” to Muzaffarabad by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), an alliance demanding economic relief and local reforms, which was recently banned by the regional administration.
Fatal Confrontation in Sudhnoti
The most severe confrontation occurred in Baloch, a tehsil of the Sudhnoti district, along the Kotli-Trarkhal highway.
According to AJK police, security forces launched a clearance operation to remove road blockades set up by JAAC supporters that were disrupting the flow of essential food and medical supplies.
A convoy of approximately 450 law enforcement personnel was intercepted near Baloch by hundreds of protesters. The confrontation escalated into stone-pelting and an exchange of gunfire. One police person, identified as Constable Aqeel, lost his life. In the ensuing crossfire, seven protesters lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries.
Secondary Clash on Rawalakot Outskirts
A separate, fatal clash was reported on the outskirts of Rawalakot in the Mutyalmera area, where protesters had maintained a sit-in camp.
Officials claim that security personnel conducted a raid in the area following intelligence reports of weapon storage. The raid met with armed resistance, resulting in an exchange of fire. One Ranger, identified as Naik Imtiaz Ali and one JAAC activist lost their lives.
“The state’s priority remains protecting the lives, property, and free movement of the general public. While we respect peaceful advocacy, we cannot permit armed elements to paralyze the state or block essential supply routes.” — Chaudhry Guftar Hussain, AJK Special Home Secretary
Calls for De-escalation and Restraint
Local political analysts and civil society leaders have urged both the state administration and the protest leadership to exercise maximum restraint and seek a peaceful, negotiated settlement.
Many residents have expressed distress over the rising tensions and the continuing suspension of mobile internet services, which has severely impacted local businesses, online education, and daily communication. While the AJK High Court is set to hear petitions challenging the digital shutdown on Thursday, community elders are urging immediate dialogue to prevent further loss of life.
