Infiltration of Militants Turns Peaceful PoK Rally Violent, Sources Claim

A peaceful demonstration organized by the Awami Action Committee in Rawalakot, located in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, reportedly erupted into violence due to the infiltration of operatives linked to intelligence agencies and militant groups. According to intelligence sources cited by CNN-News18, the protest, which took place on July 27, was intended to address local governance and economic grievances without resorting to violence. Participants were reportedly instructed to carry white flags and maintain a peaceful demeanor throughout the event. However, the situation escalated unexpectedly, resulting in clashes, gunfire, and subsequent allegations of a crackdown by security forces.

Intelligence reports suggest that individuals in plain clothes, allegedly connected to Pakistani intelligence, alongside militants from Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen, were present among the demonstrators. These operatives are accused of inciting violence among the protesters, thereby creating a scenario that could warrant a strong response from security personnel. A senior intelligence official has claimed that this operation was executed under the orders of Sector Commander Brigadier Faiq Ayoub, who was allegedly instructed by higher authorities to suppress the ongoing agitation by the Awami Action Committee “by all means necessary.” This assertion raises serious concerns about the involvement of state apparatus in undermining peaceful protests.