People's Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday called on the Pakistan government to handle the situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) with greater sensitivity. She expressed concern over the ongoing violence in Rawalakot and the action being taken against protesters.
In a post on X, Mufti criticised the use of force against demonstrators and said peaceful citizens should not be punished for raising their concerns.
She said the images and videos emerging from across the Line of Control were distressing and showed protesters facing force while expressing their grievances.
Mufti urged the Pakistan government to stop using bullets against people participating in peaceful demonstrations. She said authorities should choose dialogue and engagement instead of force. According to her, the demands raised by the protesters appear to be genuine and deserve attention. She added that governments should listen to their people rather than silence them through repression. She also stressed that Kashmiris deserve dignity, justice and a chance to have their voices heard.
Her remarks came as protests continued at D-Chowk in Rawalakot on Thursday. Social media accounts linked to the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) alleged that security forces had opened fire on protesters and caused casualties during the demonstrations.
Posts shared by accounts associated with the JKJAAC claimed that protesters had been gathering at D-Chowk for several days. They were demanding a long march and protesting what they described as brutality and targeted killings by security forces.
In a video shared on social media, a protester alleged that armed personnel stationed in nearby buildings were firing at unarmed civilians taking part in the demonstrations.
The protester claimed that several people who lost their lives had suffered gunshot wounds to the head. He said the protesters never expected such force to be used against ordinary civilians.
According to a statement issued by Amnesty International, violence was reported in Rawalakot on July 27. The organisation also noted that a political worker was killed in a clash between supporters of rival groups in Kotli.
Amnesty International said the JAAC had claimed that 19 people were killed and dozens injured when security forces allegedly fired on protesters. However, media reports mentioned casualties without confirming the exact number of deaths. Police officials said two personnel were injured in the unrest.
The rights organisation also said mobile internet services in the region have remained suspended since June 5.
It further cited media reports claiming that at least 40 people have died ahead of the elections, including 34 protesters and six members of the police and paramilitary forces.
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