Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir unrest escalates as long march heads to Muzaffarabad

Protesters in Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (PoK) have launched a long march toward the regional capital Muzaffarabad after negotiations with Pakistani authorities collapsed. The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) announced the mobilisation, with convoys departing from Mirpur and gathering in Rawalakot, where more than 125,000 demonstrators have assembled. The march is scheduled to begin on July 27, coinciding with regional legislative elections.

The United Kashmir People’s National Party warned against the use of force, noting that over 40 people have died since unrest began on June 5. Pakistani security forces, including Rangers, Frontier Constabulary and Punjab Constabulary, have been deployed in the area. The organizers have appealed to the United Nations, the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia and the broader international community for protection of civilians and an independent investigation of casualties.