RAWALAKOT, Azad Kashmir — A paramilitary Ranger was killed and several police officers were injured after violent clashes broke out in Rawalakot Azad Kashmir following protests linked to the boycott of the first phase of elections for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, officials said.
According to local authorities, supporters of the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKAAC) attempted to enter Rawalakot as part of a long march despite heightened security arrangements. Security personnel blocked the protesters at entry points to the city, leading to confrontations that escalated into violence.
Officials said security forces used tear gas to disperse demonstrators after protesters allegedly attacked law enforcement personnel. During the clashes, Ranger Ali Raza was killed, while at least three police officers sustained injuries.
Authorities also reported that one Rangers vehicle and one police vehicle were set on fire during the unrest.
District officials said thousands of demonstrators had been moving toward Rawalakot from areas including Darik and Sangola. According to the administration, some protesters opened fire on security personnel, prompting a security response.
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However, Abid Shaheen, a member of the Joint Awami Action Committee’s core committee, rejected the official version, alleging that security forces opened fire on what he described as a peaceful protest. He claimed at least five protesters were injured and vowed that the march would continue toward Muzaffarabad.
The banned Joint Awami Action Committee had earlier announced a boycott of the Azad Kashmir elections. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) also expressed solidarity with the committee last month and decided not to participate in the electoral process.
Following the violence, Election Commission Secretary Raja Muhammad Shakeel and the Chief Secretary of Azad Kashmir warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt polling or undermine public order.
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Police said investigations into the violence were underway and vowed to take action against those involved in attacks on security personnel and public property. Authorities also urged the public to rely only on verified information and avoid misinformation circulating on social media.
The election schedule for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly will continue with the second phase of polling on August 2 in Muzaffarabad Division, followed by the third phase on August 10 in Poonch Division.
