AJK protests escalate as clashes, arrests and shutdown deepen tensions in Muzaffarabad
Protesters and riot police face off amid widespread shutdowns and unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
AJK protests intensified on Tuesday as protesters and law enforcers clashed across Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Supporters of the recently-proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) moved toward Muzaffarabad during a region-wide shutdown.
The situation matters because it combines political tensions, arrests, internet restrictions and reported casualties. As a result, rights groups raised concerns while AJK Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore urged dialogue.
AJK protests spread across Mirpur division
Rallies emerged from Mirpur, Bhimber and Kotli districts as part of the JAAC long march toward Muzaffarabad. In Mirpur, hundreds gathered outside Quaid-i-Azam Cricket Stadium before moving toward Plaak bridge.
Another rally from Dadyal joined the procession near the Kotli district boundary. During a brief confrontation in Pind Sabharwal village, protesters and police officers sustained injuries.
Kotli clashes turn deadly
Violence escalated in Kotli city after a large procession arrived from Khuiratta tehsil. Authorities did not release official casualty figures.
However, residents and cabinet members told local media that several people lost their lives and many others suffered injuries. Reports identified a doctor and a woman among the victims.
Initial accounts suggest a stray bullet hit the doctor while he stood on the roof of his home.
Muzaffarabad remains under heavy security
Security forces maintained a strong presence across Muzaffarabad. Riot police guarded government buildings and major roads throughout the day.
Despite the planned march, the capital remained calm.
Region-wide shutdown disrupts daily life
The strike halted most economic activity across AJK. Banks, medical stores, restaurants and transport services remained closed.
Authorities also restricted internet and mobile data services. Consequently, journalists and residents struggled to verify developments quickly.
Only a small number of motorcycles and private vehicles appeared on the roads.
Government launches legal action against JAAC
The AJK government ordered authorities to begin sedition proceedings against JAAC leaders Shaukat Nawaz Mir and Khawaja Mehran Arshad.
According to an official notification, authorities accused both leaders of promoting sedition through speeches, written material, videos and audio recordings.
Officials directed police in Mirpur and Muzaffarabad to register cases, investigate the allegations and submit charge-sheets to the courts.
Rs10 million reward targets JAAC leaders
The government also announced a Rs10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of four JAAC figures.
The list includes Shaukat Nawaz Mir, Umar Nazir Kashmiri, Khawaja Mehran Arshad and Sardar Aman Khan.
Five suspects arrested in Muzaffarabad
According to the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan, law enforcement agencies arrested five suspects during an intelligence-based operation in Muzaffarabad.
Investigators confiscated laptops, mobile phones and communication equipment. Officials said information from one suspect helped them recover automatic weapons, grenades and other military hardware.
Authorities are examining alleged links between the suspects and foreign intelligence agencies.
Faisal Mumtaz Rathore urges negotiations
Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore renewed his call for dialogue on X. He urged all parties to return to the negotiating table and avoid further violence.
According to his statement, negotiations offer the best path to resolving the crisis. He also urged both sides to remain calm and seek a peaceful solution.
Rights groups express concern
Amnesty International voiced concern over the escalating crackdown on protests. The organization cited internet restrictions, arrests and the reported use of force.
Meanwhile, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said it remained deeply concerned about the growing confrontation and reported loss of life.
What happens next in AJK protests
The next few days could shape the future of AJK protests. Government officials and protest leaders now face increasing pressure to resume talks.
Meanwhile, transport disruptions, communication restrictions and legal actions continue to affect the region. Many observers believe meaningful dialogue could help reduce tensions.
