NEW DELHI, JUL 5 (agencies): Mass protests broke out across Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Sunday as thousands of people took to the streets demanding an end to the alleged siege, restoration of communication services, uninterrupted supply of food and medicines, the release of detained leaders, and implementation of a 38-point written agreement, reports News 18.
Violence erupted in the Anb area, where police and Rangers allegedly resorted to tear gas shelling and opened fire on demonstrators. One person, identified as Muhammad Yakub, was reportedly killed, while several others sustained injuries in the firing. Tear gas shelling and gunfire also left four youths injured, according to local sources.
The protests were held in response to a call by the Action Committee, with large crowds gathering in Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Mirpur, Dadyal, Derakot, Zero Point, Tiatri Note and Sarosa.
According to local accounts, protesters demanded the release of all detainees, including Action Committee leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir, the return of the bodies of those killed to their families, and implementation of the 38-point agreement instead of what they alleged were repeated delays.
In Dadyal, protesters reportedly overwhelmed security personnel, forcing them to retreat after large crowds took control of the area.
Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the reported casualties or the allegations made by the protesters. The claims could not be independently verified by CNN-News18.
