RAWALAKOT: A Rangers soldier was martyred and another was wounded while protecting civilians during a confrontation with armed anarchists belonging to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir.
According to official accounts, JAAC anarchists, armed with explosives and sophisticated weapons, launched indiscriminate gunfire near the New Bus Stand in the early hours of July 14. Authorities alleged the attackers sought to create chaos and falsely implicate Pakistan’s security forces.
The violence in Rawalakot has, according to officials, laid bare the reality of armed extremists operating under the guise of “activism.” After failing to secure public backing, the militants turned their weapons on civilian areas, placing innocent lives at risk in an attempt to advance their narrative.
Local authorities said the attackers tried to shift the blame onto police and security forces, but aerial surveillance footage exposed their actions. Police and Rangers responded swiftly to the assault.
During the operation, one Rangers soldier embraced martyrdom while another sustained injuries. Officials said the attack demonstrated that armed militants were using violence and intimidation, effectively holding civilians hostage.
No political cause or self-styled movement can justify transforming residential neighbourhoods into conflict zones. Those who resort to terrorism, target civilians, and challenge the writ of the state through violence must face the full force of the law.
Pakistan honours the sacrifice of its martyrs and remains committed to defeating armed militancy and protecting innocent lives.
