Pakistan uses drones to target homes amid PoK protests

Widespread unrest continues in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as protesters demand fundamental rights and basic amenities. After more than three months of demonstrations, Pakistani security forces have reportedly escalated their crackdown by using drones to target private residential homes.

Previous attempts to quell the agitation through tear gas, firing, and lathi charges have failed to deter the movement. The protests, which were initially led by advocacy groups such as the Joint Action Awami Committee (JAAC), have evolved into a broader people’s movement. The unrest has expanded from Rawalakot to the capital city of Muzaffarabad, with students from Chehla University and Jamia Kashmir Muzaffarabad joining the demonstrations in solidarity.

Officials have described the use of drones against residential complexes as a dangerous escalation intended to instill fear, noting that such tactics have instead further mobilized the population.