At least 7 civilians killed during Sunday clash between police, JAAC protesters in AJK's Rawalakot: official

Violence erupted in Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of at least seven civilians and four law enforcement officers during a confrontation between police and the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). The unrest began following the death of a local trader during a previous encounter with authorities, leading to a prolonged sit-in outside a military hospital. Tensions escalated when police attempted to disperse the demonstrators, sparking clashes that left dozens of officers injured and led to the arrest of 30 individuals. The regional government recently banned the JAAC, accusing the group of engaging in terrorism and threatening public security. Protesters have demanded the withdrawal of this ban and the abolition of specific refugee seats in the legislative assembly, which they claim are used to manipulate local politics. Amidst the ongoing instability, authorities have restricted mobile data services and deployed federal paramilitary forces to manage the situation.

The escalation of violence and the government's decision to proscribe a major protest group highlights a significant political and security crisis that threatens the stability of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir region.