More than 30 civilians were reportedly killed in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as security forces cracked down on JAAC-led protests, escalating tensions over rising costs, political grievances and election boycott calls. More than 30 civilians have reportedly been killed and over 33 others injured after Pakistani security forces launched a crackdown on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), according to government sources, triggering a major escalation in the region’s ongoing unrest. Security tightened in major PoK areasFollowing the protests, security forces have increased their presence in Rawalakote, Muzaffarabad and other key locations to prevent further gatherings. Among those reported killed in the violence is Usman Nazir, brother of JAAC Central Committee member Umar Nazir, according to sources. New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that Pakistan’s control over PoK is illegal, while Pakistan rejects India’s position.