Violence linked to JAAC protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir claimed seven lives, with authorities intensifying action against the banned movement.

Deadly Violence in Rawalakot

At least seven people were killed and dozens injured after violent clashes broke out between protesters and police in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Monday, according to local officials. The unrest is the latest escalation in a growing confrontation between authorities and the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a protest movement demanding economic and governance reforms in the region.

The most serious violence was reported from Rawalakot, where demonstrators and security personnel reportedly engaged in prolonged confrontations. Officials confirmed casualties on both sides as tensions spilled onto the streets.

Civilian and Police Casualties

According to Commissioner Sardar Waheed, the senior civilian administrator in Rawalakot, three civilians were killed and around 40 others sustained injuries during the clashes.

Police, in a separate statement, said four officers lost their lives while 23 personnel were injured. The combined toll has raised concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the Himalayan region, where protests have periodically intensified in recent months.

Initial reports indicate that confrontations turned violent after security forces attempted to enforce restrictions imposed by the administration amid ongoing demonstrations.

JAAC Remains Defiant

The unrest comes days after authorities formally banned the JAAC under anti-terrorism legislation. Despite the move, the group had announced plans to continue its protest campaign, arguing that its demands relate to rising living costs, governance concerns and political rights.

JAAC leaders and supporters have rejected the government's decision to classify the organisation as a terrorist entity. The group has described the designation as an act of repression aimed at silencing dissent rather than addressing public grievances.

The movement has gained visibility over the past year through demonstrations focused on inflation, electricity tariffs and broader economic challenges faced by residents.

Security Measures Tightened

Authorities have stepped up security measures across several parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir following the latest violence.

Officials said the JAAC's central office was sealed on Sunday as part of the ongoing crackdown. A ban on large public gatherings was also imposed in Muzaffarabad, the region's largest city, amid fears that protests could spread further.

Law enforcement personnel were deployed in key areas of the city on Monday. While markets remained open, residents had reportedly rushed to purchase essential supplies over the weekend amid concerns about possible shutdowns, transport disruptions and fresh demonstrations.

Dozens Arrested

Police confirmed that more than 70 JAAC members were arrested over the weekend. The detentions form part of a broader operation targeting organisers and activists linked to the protest movement.

Authorities have defended the arrests as necessary to maintain law and order. However, rights advocates and opposition voices have questioned the use of anti-terror laws against a movement that publicly frames itself as a campaign for economic and political reforms.

The arrests have become another flashpoint in the ongoing dispute between the administration and protest organisers.

Echoes of Earlier Unrest

The latest clashes are not the first major episode of violence linked to the movement. Authorities noted that similar confrontations between police and JAAC supporters erupted in September last year, resulting in multiple fatalities.

That unrest highlighted long-standing frustrations over governance and economic conditions in the region. While some issues were addressed through negotiations at the time, tensions have resurfaced in recent weeks as both sides adopted increasingly hardline positions.

Uncertain Situation Ahead

With arrests continuing and restrictions remaining in place, the situation across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir remains tense. Security agencies are maintaining a visible presence in major urban centres, while protest organisers have indicated that their campaign will continue despite the ban.

The coming days are likely to determine whether dialogue can resume or whether the PoK protest movement and the authorities move towards further confrontation.