At least six civilians were killed after Pakistani security forces allegedly opened fire during clashes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), according to reports. The violence took place in and around Rawalakot and nearby areas, further raising tensions in the region where protests against Islamabad have intensified in recent months. The latest incident has also drawn a strong response from India, which accused Pakistan of using excessive force against civilians and ignoring their grievances.

What happened and where did the violence take place?

The clashes broke out near the New Bus Terminal in Rawalakot, where Pakistani security forces reportedly launched a crackdown on civilians. During the confrontation, security personnel allegedly opened fire, resulting in the deaths of six people.

Among those reported killed in the Baloch Sadhunati district were Zahid Mughal, Zafar Mughal, Arsalan Akbar, and Wajid Hayat, who was reportedly killed at the Matial Mira Bus Terminal in Rawalakot. The incident has added to growing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, where local residents have increasingly voiced concerns over governance, security measures, and living conditions.

The latest violence has intensified fears of further instability in the region as authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Why are protests increasing in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir?

Just a day before the deadly clashes, members of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir community living in the United States held a demonstration outside the White House in Washington, calling for international attention to what they described as a worsening humanitarian crisis.

Nearly 100 people, including women, children, and community leaders, participated in the protest. Demonstrators demanded the withdrawal of Pakistani military forces from civilian areas and urged the international community to investigate allegations of excessive force against unarmed civilians.

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The protesters also claimed that a prolonged internet shutdown had left nearly four million people disconnected from the outside world. They appealed for humanitarian assistance and called for the Line of Control to be opened through the Poonch and Doda sectors to facilitate relief for affected residents.

What challenges are residents facing?

Apart from the recent violence, residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir continue to face serious economic and humanitarian difficulties.

According to a 2025 study published in Nature, around 66% of the population depends on farming and livestock for survival. However, more than 57% of households reportedly face food insecurity, while nearly 29% of residents are undernourished, higher than Pakistan’s national average.

The study also highlighted that food shortages are particularly severe in mountainous regions, where up to 90% of households are affected. Healthcare indicators also remain concerning, with Pakistan’s Voluntary National Review Report stating that 39% of children under five suffer from stunted growth, while the maternal mortality ratio stands at 104 deaths per 100,000 live births.

How has India responded?

India’s Ministry of External Affairs strongly criticised Pakistan over the latest developments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the ongoing protests were the result of Pakistan’s “systematic exploitation,” denial of fundamental rights, and administrative oppression in territories under its control. India also accused Pakistan of responding to peaceful protests with police brutality, blocking essential supplies, enforcing internet shutdowns, and using lethal force against unarmed civilians.

The Ministry further stated that the international community should hold Pakistan accountable for its handling of the situation and the reported crackdown on civilians. As tensions remain high, attention is now focused on whether fresh protests or additional security measures could further affect the already volatile situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.