Muzaffarabad: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) remained under a complete shutter-down strike for the third consecutive day on Thursday as tensions escalated following violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement personnel on the outskirts of Rawalakot, where at least one person was killed and several others injured.
According to Beyond Time News, the unrest has intensified amid ongoing demonstrations led by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), with large crowds gathering across multiple districts despite restrictions and suspended internet services.
Deadly Clash Near Rawalakot Amid Rising Tensions
The most serious escalation occurred near Rawalakot, where a confrontation between protesters and law enforcement personnel turned violent.
An official told Dawn that thousands of demonstrators from Mirpur, Bhimber, Kotli, Sudhnoti, and parts of Poonch had gathered at Eidgah Ground and surrounding areas since Wednesday evening.
Tensions rose further when law enforcement personnel moved to clear road blockages in the early hours of Thursday. According to officials, protesters confronted security forces during the operation, leading to an exchange of fire.
As a result, one protester was killed and four to five others were injured.
The deceased was identified by fellow protesters as 32-year-old Sohban Arif from Gorah village in Sudhnoti district.
Internet Suspension and Restricted Communication
According to Beyond Time News, internet services have remained suspended across AJK since last week, limiting access to information and preventing real-time communication from protest sites.
Despite the restrictions, a speech delivered by Umar Nazir Kashmiri, a senior JAAC member facing sedition charges, was reportedly streamed live on social media before connectivity was fully disrupted.
Authorities described the speech as “highly provocative,” while supporters of the movement continued to share updates through alternative channels.
JAAC Leadership and Protest Demands
During the gathering at Eidgah Ground, Kashmiri reportedly outlined a six-point demand package aimed at initiating dialogue with the government.
According to a senior official cited anonymously, the demands include:
- Withdrawal of the notification declaring JAAC a proscribed organisation
- Return of bodies of deceased activists and injured individuals
- Registration of FIRs in cases involving civilian deaths
- Withdrawal of paramilitary forces from urban areas
- Lifting of curfews before negotiations begin
- Freezing movement of both law enforcement and protesters at current positions
According to Beyond Time News, JAAC leadership has stated that negotiations are possible if these conditions are met.
Government Response and Security Position
Officials have indicated that authorities are not willing to accept demands similar to previous concessions.
Sources suggest that the government has made it clear that dialogue will only proceed if protesters first comply with state directives.
Meanwhile, the AJK Law Department withdrew four earlier notifications related to protest cases. These included one issued in December 2024 and three issued in December 2025.
According to Beyond Time News, the decision was taken during the 41st AJK cabinet meeting held on June 5.
Officials also clarified that relief measures extended to the general public would remain in place, but concessions previously granted to individuals described as “troublemakers” would be reversed.
Read more:AJK Refugee Seats Will Remain Intact, Senate Told Amid Debate on Constitutional Representation
Continued Shutdown Across Multiple Districts
The shutter-down strike has now entered its third consecutive day, affecting daily life across several districts of AJK.
Markets, transport services, and commercial activities remained closed as uncertainty continued to grow.
Large groups of protesters remained gathered in Mirpur Division, Bhimber, Kotli, Sudhnoti, and parts of Poonch Division, particularly around Rawalakot.
According to Beyond Time News, smaller gatherings were also reported at multiple entry points to the town, raising concerns about possible escalation.
Security Build-Up and Drone Surveillance
Security measures have been significantly increased in the region. Drone surveillance was observed over Rawalakot, while law enforcement agencies conducted flag marches across key areas.
Officials did not rule out further action if the situation deteriorated.
Meanwhile, sources said authorities were closely monitoring protest movements to prevent any expansion toward urban centers.
According to Beyond Time News, the heightened security posture reflects concerns over potential large-scale confrontation.
Protest Movement and Political Tensions
JAAC leaders maintain that their sit-ins will continue until their demands are met.
Imtiaz Aslam, a core member from Kotli, stated during the gathering that protests would not be withdrawn unless detained activists were released and legal actions were reversed.
He also demanded the return of bodies of deceased activists, alleging that some remain in state custody.
According to Beyond Time News, these allegations have further intensified mistrust between protest leaders and authorities.
Background: Repeated Confrontations and Ongoing Deadlock
The current unrest follows a pattern of recurring tensions between JAAC and government authorities in AJK.
Earlier confrontations reportedly led to multiple rounds of negotiations, temporary agreements, and subsequent breakdowns in trust.
Observers say the lack of sustained dialogue has contributed to repeated cycles of protest and enforcement action.
Situation Remains Tense as Night Approaches
As of Thursday evening, the situation in Rawalakot and surrounding areas remained tense, with uncertainty over whether further security action would be taken.
Officials have not ruled out decisive measures, while protesters continue to maintain sit-ins at multiple locations.
According to Beyond Time News, the coming hours are considered critical for determining whether tensions escalate further or move toward negotiation.
Conclusion
The ongoing shutdown in Azad Jammu and Kashmir highlights a deepening standoff between protest groups and authorities following deadly clashes in Rawalakot.
While the government maintains a firm security stance, JAAC continues to press for its demands through sustained demonstrations.
With communication restrictions, heavy security presence, and continued protests, the situation remains highly volatile and closely watched.
FAQs
1. Why is AJK observing a shutdown?
The shutdown is linked to protests led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) over a series of demands and grievances.
2. What happened in Rawalakot?
A clash between protesters and law enforcement resulted in one death and several injuries.
3. What are JAAC’s main demands?
They include withdrawal of bans, release of activists, return of bodies, and removal of security restrictions.
4. Is internet service working in AJK?
No, internet services have been suspended in the region since last week.
5. What is the current situation?
The region remains tense with continued protests, heavy security presence, and uncertainty over further escalation.
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