Archive · 30 Jul 2026
PoK Crackdown: 30+ Killed, 33 Injured Amid Elections
In July 2026, people in a region called Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (PoK) were upset about how they were treated and wanted more freedom.
They marched to protest while local elections were happening.
The Pakistani army used guns and other weapons, killing more than 30 people and hurting 33 others.
A group called the Joint Awami Action Committee led the protests and asked the world to look into what happened.
Amnesty International, a human‑rights group, said the army should stop using force and let reporters see what was going on.
Because of the violence, very few people voted in the elections.
The army also stopped the internet and phone service, making it hard for people to know what was happening.
At least 30 civilians killed and 33 injured during a two‑day crackdown by Pakistani security forces in PoK.
The Joint Awami Action Committee led protests, calling for a boycott of the elections and demanding greater autonomy.
Amnesty International and other human‑rights groups called for an independent investigation and restoration of communications after a blackout since June 5.
Pakistani authorities banned the JAAC under anti‑terrorism laws and imposed a communication blackout, limiting media and observer access.
Violence reduced voter turnout to below 10 % in the Mirpur division, affecting 3.8 million eligible voters.
- Who
- Pakistani security forces, Joint Awami Action Committee, Amnesty International, Pakistani authorities
- What
- Lethal crackdown killing at least 30 civilians and injuring 33 during protests over local elections
- When
- July 27‑28, 2026 (two‑day period) with a communication blackout since June 5
- Where
- Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir, especially Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, and Mirpur division
- Why
- Protesters demanded greater autonomy and opposed alleged discrimination; authorities sought to control the elections
- Deaths
- 30+ civilians
- Injuries
- 33+ civilians
- Location
- Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (PoK)
- Event
- Local body elections and protests
- Key Organization
- Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC)
- Human Rights Call
- Independent investigation demanded by Amnesty International
