Even as the first phase of what critics call a farcical election unfolded in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the crackdown by Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir’s forces showed no signs of slowing. Following the latest escalation, the death toll among PoK civilians has reportedly climbed to 67.

Chaos erupted at a busy marketplace in Mirpur after Munir’s forces allegedly opened fire on civilians. At least five to six people were reportedly killed as panic gripped the area and locals scrambled for safety.

Gunshots echoed across the marketplace, while thick smoke billowed from a nearby shop.

Despite Pakistan’s attempts to downplay the violence, the situation on the ground paints a different picture.

According to the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), at least 14 of its activists were killed on Monday alone during the first phase of the so-called assembly elections in PoK. More than 28 others were reportedly injured.

The latest crackdown came after the JAAC launched its long march towards Muzaffarabad.

The protests were originally triggered by the ban on the civil society group.

On June 9, thousands of JAAC supporters began a sit-in at Rawalakot’s Eidgah Ground.

The group presented 38 demands, including the abolition of 12 seats in the so-called legislative assembly, which it claims are dominated by Pakistan. Instead of negotiations, Islamabad has chosen force, protesters allege.

Pakistan frequently speaks about Kashmir on the global stage. But its critics point to what they describe as a glaring contradiction.