Violence has intensified in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), with protest groups claiming that more than 30 people have been killed and around 200 injured in a security crackdown linked to a region-wide protest movement against economic hardships, governance issues and political representation.Punjab Police and Rangers firing on innocent Kashmiri’s at #Rawalakot #POKAs per reports 100s of innocent civilians have been kiled till now and their dead bodies are being removed quietly3 kashmiri policemen have been also shot dead by Pakistani Rangers who refused to fire… pic.twitter.com/cSbe2mv5pY— Maj Rakesh, Shaurya Chakra,(Kargil War Veteran) (@gorockgo_100) June 8, 2026The unrest centres on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a civil society alliance that has spearheaded protests over inflation, electricity tariffs, unemployment and political rights. Tensions escalated after authorities banned the organisation and launched a crackdown on its supporters ahead of a planned shutdown across the region on Tuesday.BREAKING 🚨Clashes between protesters and law enforcement agencies in #Muzaffarabad #POK pic.twitter.com/HGBNpSs24M— Shahid Qazi (@QaziShahid786) June 9, 2026According to official reports cited by international media, at least 11 people were killed and more than 70 injured in clashes between protesters and security forces in Rawalakot over the weekend. Authorities said both civilians and security personnel were among the casualties.However, JAAC leaders and activists have alleged that the actual toll is significantly higher, claiming that security forces opened fire on mourners and protesters gathered in Rawalakot, leaving dozens dead and hundreds injured. Some reports have put the death toll above 30 and injuries at around 200.The Pakistani authorities have deployed additional security personnel, including Rangers and police units, across several districts. Internet and digital communication services have reportedly been suspended in parts of the region amid fears of further unrest.The protests have drawn international attention, with members of the diaspora staging demonstrations abroad and some UK lawmakers raising concerns over the situation following reports of deaths and injuries in Rawalakot.The current agitation follows months of growing discontent over rising living costs, governance concerns and demands for greater political representation in the region. Human rights groups and activists have called for restraint and urged authorities to engage in dialogue with protest leaders.