Pakistani Army’s bloody orgy in PoJK: Indiscriminate firing on protesters in Rawalakot, 5 killed and dozens injured

The situation in Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has become extremely tense and out of control. On Monday, the Pakistani Army opened indiscriminate fire on civilians protesting peacefully for their demands in Rawalakot. In this tragic incident, at least 5 people died on the spot, while more than 30 people were seriously injured. The condition of many of the injured remains critical, due to which the death toll is expected to increase. The bloody shootout took place when thousands of civilians were preparing to march towards Muzaffarabad under the banner of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Protests going on for 52 days and JAAC’s ultimatum: Protests have been going on continuously for the last 52 days in PoJK. Local citizens and JAAC activists are demanding the release of the arrested activists, withdrawal of false cases filed against the protesters and restoration of economic-social rights of the area. Talks were going on between JAAC and the local administration to end the deadlock. JAAC had given a deadline of 1:00 pm on July 27 to release the official notification. As the demands were not met, as thousands of people started marching from Rawalakot towards Muzaffarabad, Pakistani security forces used force and opened direct fire on them. Allegations of rigging and deep impact on the elections The horrific violence took place at a time when the first phase of voting was going on in 13 constituencies of Mirpur division of PoJK. On one hand, people are on the streets for their rights, while on the other hand, allegations of massive election rigging and booth capturing have come to light from many areas including Kotli. Due to continuous strikes, ban on rallies and army brutality, the election campaign of political parties has come to a complete standstill. There is huge dissatisfaction and indifference among the general public regarding this electoral process. Elections in Rawalakote and Sudhanoti postponed till August 10. In view of this bloody massacre in Rawalakote and the ever increasing crowd of people, the administration is completely on the backfoot. Citing the deteriorating situation and security concerns, the proposed assembly elections in Sudhnoti and Rawalakote districts have been postponed to August 10. After this incident, anger against the Pakistani government and army is at its peak throughout PoJK and protests have intensified at many places.