PoK protesters reject Pakistan narrative ahead of July 15 march

Thousands gathered in Rawalakot on July 12, 2026, as organisers said more than 60,000 people attended a rally rejecting Pakistan’s long-standing Kashmir narrative while preparing for a planned march on July 15. Reaction pending.

Rawalakot Eidgah mobilisation

Speakers at the Eidgah ground accused the Pakistani establishment of ignoring local needs and using force to suppress demands. Sardar Javed Iqbal said, "For 78 years, we were fed with the 'Churan' that they (Pakistan) would liberate Srinagar. That Churan (Narrative) has grown old. Sell this talk to those who want to travel from Rawalakot to Rawalpindi...the people of Kashmir are no longer buying it." Organisers said women and children joined protests across towns including Dhirkot and Kotli.

Protest leaders and the Awami Action Committee reported 65 deaths linked to clashes with security forces over the past 34 days and released footage they said showed looting of a local shop. Allegations of force by paramilitary units were repeated from the stage; officials have not publicly confirmed casualty totals. Sardar Aman Khan told the crowd, "Do not flee to Rawalpindi after July 15, stay right here."

Officials said a march toward Muzaffarabad is scheduled for July 15, 2026. Analysts and regional actors will watch security force movements and casualty reports in the 48 hours before that date for signs the confrontation will escalate or de-escalate.