Protests Grip AJK After Action Committee Banned; Curfews, Roadblocks, and Clashes
Muzaffarabad: Neelum, Bagh, Kahuta Gali, Rawalakot (correspondents) — Following the ban on the Action Committee in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, tensions have escalated across the region. Protests were reported in several cities including Neelum, Pattika, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Kahuta Haveli, and Rawalakot, where markets remained partially open in some areas and closed in others.
A curfew under Section 144 has been imposed in the capital Muzaffarabad. In Kahuta Gali, protests erupted after the death of a committee member, while a sit-in continues in Rawalakot. The relatives of Shazib Hanif have announced they will not proceed with burial until an FIR is registered over the killing.
Clashes and a cat-and-mouse situation were reported between protesters and security forces in Rawalakot. During tear gas shelling, a shell reportedly landed inside a house, injuring a woman along with several others.
Rawalakot and surrounding major towns remained partially shut for the second consecutive day, while public transport also stayed suspended. Meanwhile, protesters have blocked all types of traffic at the Azad Pattan entry point, Tain Dalkot Road, and Thalla Bazaar.
However, traffic from the Murree-Kohala Road towards Bagh, Muzaffarabad, Jhelum Valley, and Neelum Valley is continuing normally. In Baloch, markets remained closed following the arrest of two leaders of the banned Action Committee.
At the Azad Pattan entry point, protesters have allowed passage for ambulances and overseas passengers. Mobile data, cellular, and fiber internet services remain suspended across Azad Kashmir, while mobile phone networks are partially restored, causing continued communication difficulties for citizens.
