Pakistani Forces Kill at Least 20 Protesters in Kashmir

Pakistani security forces killed at least 20 people and injured over 250 others on Monday during a violent crackdown on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The violence centered in Rawalakot, where security forces reportedly used snipers, live ammunition, heavy shelling, and tear gas to disperse crowds. The casualties occurred during a Long March organized by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which began in the Mirpur Division and was advancing toward Muzaffarabad.

The mobilization followed failed talks with authorities and a boycott of legislative assembly elections led by the JAAC and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf. Protesters, some of whom carried white flags, faced a strict blockade and a communications blackout as the government suspended internet, mobile, electricity, and water services. Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly directed forces to use force to subside the protests.

Imtiaz Aslam, a core member of the JAAC, identified one of the deceased as the brother of the movement's founder and characterized the state's response as genocide. The United Kashmir People's National Party and other opposition leaders condemned the brutality and called for international intervention. India's Ministry of External Affairs condemned the police brutality and urged the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for the abuses.