At least 20 people were reportedly killed and more than 50 others injured after security forces allegedly opened fire on protesters in Rawalakot, in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, according to Indian broadcaster NDTV. The claims could not be independently verified, and there was no immediate official response from Pakistani authorities.
According to the report, the incident occurred in the Drik Eith area, where demonstrators had gathered as part of an ongoing protest movement calling for a boycott of the upcoming elections. NDTV reported that those killed included Usman Nazir, the brother of Umar Nazir Kashmiri, spokesperson for the Joint Protest Action Committee.
NDTV further claimed that at least 80 people have been killed since the protests began on June 5. The broadcaster said videos it reviewed appeared to show bodies lying on roads and security forces firing at demonstrators. However, the authenticity of the footage has not been independently verified.
In a video message, local social media personality Aqeel Bhai described the situation as “extremely critical.” He claimed that many people had been killed and injured and appealed for urgent international attention. Aqeel said he had managed to leave the area safely but was deeply shaken by the reported loss of life.
Ahead of the elections, the Pakistani government has reportedly deployed around 14,000 security personnel across the region. NDTV also reported that snipers had been stationed in key locations. Local residents further alleged that internet and mobile services, as well as electricity and water supplies, had been suspended in several areas during the security operation.
The 53-member Legislative Assembly of Pakistan-administered Kashmir comprises 45 directly elected seats and eight reserved seats. Voting has already concluded in the Mirpur Division. Polls for Muzaffarabad Division and refugee constituencies are scheduled for August 2, while voting in the Poonch Division is set to take place on August 10.
Editor’s Note: The casualty figures and other details in this report are based primarily on NDTV’s reporting. They could not be independently verified by this news organization.
Source: NDTV