Over 30 dead, 200 injured as security forces open fire on protesters in PoJK

New Delhi, Jun 9: Over 30 people have been killed and around 200 others have been injured during clashes between protesters and security forces in Pakistan-occupied Jammu-Kashmir (PoJK) after authorities banned the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC)- a prominent civil society alliance that has spearheaded protests over economic and political grievances in the region.

The JAAC was outlawed on Friday by authorities, citing concerns over public order and security. Clashes broke out in the city of Rawalakot after tensions flared over the death of a trader, who was allegedly shot during a confrontation with law enforcers on Friday night.

Commissioner Sardar Waheed Khan, the top civilian official in Rawalakot, told news agency Reuters that the JAAC protesters had gathered outside a hospital mortuary on Sunday, where the body of another group member was taken after his death in a firing by police.

When security forces tried to disperse the protesters, the group’s activists used automatic rifles, petrol bombs and other weapons to target them.

“As the result of the law enforcers’ response, six protesters were killed,” Khan added. He also confirmed multiple arrests during the operation.

However, local residents and JAAC supporters have disputed the official account and are claiming the number of civilian casualties was much higher.

The clashes occurred a day ahead of planned protests by JAAC, which had called the strike to protest against the reservation of 12 seats for refugees in July 27 elections to the region’s legislative body, out of 45 up for grabs.

Members of the JAAC have also called their listing as a “terror” group “oppression”, saying they are demonstrating for legitimate economic and political rights.–(NDTV)