Following the announcement by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) in Pakistan-administered Kashmir regarding preparations for a ‘long march’ toward the capital, Muzaffarabad, Pakistani forces have launched a severe military operation in Rawalakot and the southern part of Bagh.
Rawalakot city, along with the areas of Pandi Topi, Chhatra, and Kopra, is currently under intense fire from heavy weaponry deployed by the forces.
In various videos captured by local sources and civilians, the terrifying sounds of heavy gunfire and explosions can be heard; these sounds are echoing throughout the valley, causing widespread panic and fear among the public.
In southern Bagh, the forces have initiated a series of drone strikes targeting the Kopra checkpoint and its surrounding areas. Since this morning, more than six drone strikes have been carried out on populated areas and locations inhabited by peaceful civilians.
According to sources, the forces have positioned an LMG (Light Machine Gun) at a guesthouse/residence in Tattu, from which they have begun firing indiscriminately and directly at the surrounding residential areas.
Prior to this, a convoy—consisting of 30 Frontier Corps (FC) vehicles, 15 Pakistan Rangers vehicles, police transport vans, and heavy machinery (shovels/excavators)—was observed advancing rapidly via the village of Bharkah toward the site of the ongoing sit-in protest in Rawalakot. According to analysts, this intense bombardment, military blockade, and the use of drone strikes by the security forces are a sign of desperation—an attempt to prevent the public from marching toward Muzaffarabad and to suppress, through brute force, a peaceful movement that has been ongoing for four months.
It should be noted that over the past four months, violence and gunfire by the security forces have resulted in the deaths of more than 100 unarmed protesters—including women and children—while thousands have been imprisoned and hundreds have been subjected to enforced disappearance. Despite this state-sponsored oppression, the public’s enthusiasm remains undiminished, and they are currently finalizing preparations for the long march.
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