16 Killed, 37+ Injured as Pakistani Forces Open Fire on Unarmed Protesters in PoK

At least 16 people were killed and more than 37 others injured on Thursday after Pakistani security forces allegedly opened fire on thousands of unarmed protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), who had gathered at Eidgah Ground in Rawalakot. What began as a peaceful demonstration demanding affordable food, electricity, and basic civic rights quickly turned into chaos and bloodshed.

According to eyewitness accounts, between 60,000 and 70,000 people had assembled at the site when forces reportedly opened fire without warning. The crowd, which included men, women, and young people, had gathered to protest rising inflation and shortages of essential commodities. Within moments, the situation escalated into panic as people ran for cover amid gunfire.

Reports of Rising Death Toll

Local reports suggest that the situation is far more severe than initially estimated, with claims that 53 civilians have been killed since Friday in a continuing crackdown on protests across PoK. Authorities have not independently confirmed the figures, while the situation on the ground remains tense and volatile.

Scenes from Rawalakot after the incident were described as deeply disturbing, with blood-stained roads and fields, and grieving families searching for missing loved ones. Hospitals in the region are reportedly overwhelmed with the injured, as rescue efforts continue amid unrest.

Protests Continue Despite Violence

The crackdown has triggered widespread anger across PoK, with protests spreading to multiple areas. In Khai Gala village, residents shut down markets and took to the streets, joined by women, children, and elderly citizens demanding justice for those killed.

Protesters raised slogans condemning the violence, including: "Ye jo dehshatgardi hai, iske peeche wardi hai" (This terrorism is being carried out by those in uniform), reflecting growing public outrage over the alleged use of force.

Despite the violence, the protest movement has not subsided. Thousands continue to remain gathered in Rawalakot, vowing to carry forward their agitation for economic relief and political rights.

Leaders Call for Continued Movement

Addressing the crowd following the shootings, movement leader Sardar Aman Khan said the struggle had entered a decisive phase and insisted that the movement would continue despite the loss of lives.

"The people are not carrying weapons; they are carrying demands for affordable food, electricity, and dignity," supporters said, emphasizing the non-violent nature of the protest.

As funerals are held and hospitals struggle with the influx of wounded, the situation in Rawalakot has become a focal point of concern. The incident underscores the escalating tensions in the region, where demands for basic necessities have reportedly met with a forceful crackdown.

The situation remains fluid, with fears of further escalation if tensions are not addressed urgently.