8 protesters killed in Pakistan Rangers' firing in PoK ahead of Muzaffarabad march

Summary

At least eight people were killed after Pakistani Rangers opened fire on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Monday, escalating tensions ahead of a planned mass march to Muzaffarabad on July 15. According to local reports, Rangers fired tear gas shells and live rounds at demonstrators gathered at the Rawalakot bus stand, where a large number of women had assembled. Fresh firing was also reported from Sudhanoti as security forces attempted to disperse protesters. The crackdown comes on the eve of what organisers have described as a decisive showdown in the regional capital, with hundreds of thousands expected to participate in the march. At least eight people were killed after Pakistani Rangers opened fire on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Monday, escalating tensions ahead of a planned mass march to Muzaffarabad on July 15. According to local reports, Rangers fired tear gas shells and live rounds at demonstrators gathered at the Rawalakot bus stand, where a large number of women had assembled. Fresh firing was also reported from Sudhanoti as security forces attempted to disperse protesters. The crackdown comes on the eve of what organisers have described as a decisive showdown in the regional capital, with hundreds of thousands expected to participate in the march.