Curfew-Like Lockdown, Communication Shutdown, and Clashes Reported Across AJK
AJK : A complete lockdown situation continues in various parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir following a call by the banned Joint Awami Action Committee, including Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Neelum, Bagh, Rawalakot, Bhimber, Mirpur, Dadyal, Hajira, Samahni, and Pallandri. Reports also indicate that mobile phone and internet services remain suspended across the region.
According to sources, severe tension is prevailing in several cities, with growing public anxiety and anger among residents.
In Kotli’s nearby area of Cross, clashes reportedly broke out between protesters arriving from different regions and security forces, during which firing incidents also took place. Unofficial reports suggest that 8 people were killed and several others injured in the violence. The deceased reportedly include Dr. Ahsan Saleem, Maulana Muhammad Akhtar, a woman identified as Arsa Waqalat, and an individual named Bhola, while identities of four others have not yet been confirmed.
Sources further stated that protest convoys from Khoi Ratta, Sehnsa, and Dadyal are heading towards Kotli, raising fears of further escalation. Local administration and security agencies are closely monitoring the situation, while an atmosphere of fear and panic prevails among the public.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that the AJK government has announced a reward of one crore rupees each for those assisting in the arrest of key leaders of the Awami Action Committee, including Shaukat Nawaz Mir, Umar Nazir Kashmiri, Sardar Amaan, and Mehran Advocate.
Political and social circles have expressed concern over the deteriorating situation, urging all parties to exercise restraint and resolve issues through dialogue. Public voices also emphasize the urgent need for immediate steps to prevent further escalation.
