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Complete Shutdown Continues for Fourth Consecutive Day in Mirpur Azad Kashmir

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Complete Shutdown Continues for Fourth Consecutive Day in Mirpur Azad Kashmir

Sarafa Union urges public to ignore misinformation, confirms markets will remain closed on Saturday

MIRPUR, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — 12 June 2026 — A complete wheel-jam and shutter-down strike continued for a fourth consecutive day in Mirpur on Friday, with businesses, markets, and commercial activities remaining suspended across the city.

The ongoing shutdown is part of the wider wave of public mobilization witnessed in several parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir in recent days. Residents reported that major commercial centers, transport routes, and marketplaces remained largely deserted as the strike entered its fourth day.

Meanwhile, the Sarafa Union Mirpur issued a statement urging the public to remain cautious of unverified reports and misinformation circulating on social media and other platforms.

According to the union, reports suggesting the reopening of markets are inaccurate. The organization stated that traders and business owners have decided to continue the shutdown and that markets across Mirpur will remain closed on Saturday as well.

The union appealed to citizens to rely on official announcements and verified information sources regarding strike-related developments.

The continued closure of markets has affected routine business activities, while residents and traders remain closely attentive to developments that could influence the duration of the shutdown.

The Azadi Times will continue to monitor the situation and provide verified updates as further information becomes available.

Pakistan Poverty Rate Rises to 28.9%, Economic Survey Reveals Growing Economic Strain

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Pakistan Poverty Rate Rises to 28.9%, Economic Survey Reveals Growing Economic Strain

Rural communities face the sharpest increase as poverty deepens across all provinces

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s poverty rate has climbed to 28.9 percent, according to findings presented in the latest Economic Survey, underscoring the growing economic challenges confronting millions of households amid inflation, rising living costs, and slowing income growth.

The survey paints a concerning picture of economic hardship across both urban and rural areas. Rural poverty recorded the sharpest increase, rising from 28.2 percent to 36.2 percent, while urban poverty increased from 11 percent to 17.4 percent.

The data highlights significant regional disparities. Balochistan continues to record the highest poverty rate in the country at 47 percent, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at 35.3 percent. In Sindh, the poverty rate stands at 32.6 percent, while Punjab recorded the lowest rate among the provinces at 23.3 percent.

Economists say the figures reflect the cumulative impact of prolonged inflation, reduced purchasing power, energy price increases, and economic instability that have affected households across the country in recent years.

The widening gap between urban and rural communities is likely to be of particular concern to policymakers. Experts warn that increasing poverty levels could place additional pressure on public services, healthcare, education, and employment sectors unless comprehensive economic reforms and targeted social protection measures are introduced.

The latest figures come at a time when Pakistan continues to face broader economic challenges, including fiscal pressures, debt obligations, and efforts to stabilize growth while addressing the cost-of-living crisis.

Analysts note that poverty statistics are not only economic indicators but also measures of social well-being, making them critical for assessing the effectiveness of development policies and government welfare programs.

The survey’s findings are expected to fuel debate among economists, policymakers, and civil society groups over the direction of economic policy and the need for stronger interventions to support vulnerable communities.

Women Hold Protest Demonstration in Mandhol, Rawalakot

The Azadi Times
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Women Hold Protest Demonstration in Mandhol, Rawalakot

Participants raise concerns and call for attention to public issues amid ongoing mobilization across the region

RAWALAKOT, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — Women from different communities gathered in Mandhol, Rawalakot, to hold a protest demonstration, joining a growing wave of public mobilization reported across various parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Participants carried placards and raised slogans highlighting public concerns, while speakers addressed the gathering on issues affecting local communities. The demonstration remained peaceful and drew the participation of women of different ages, reflecting the increasing visibility of women in public civic movements.

Residents and observers described the gathering as a significant display of community engagement, with participants emphasizing their right to peaceful assembly and expression.

The protest comes amid continuing demonstrations, shutdowns, and political activity reported across several districts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Women organizers at the event stressed the importance of ensuring that community voices are heard and that public concerns are addressed through dialogue and constructive engagement.

Images and videos from the gathering circulated widely on social media, attracting attention from residents across the region.

The demonstration in Mandhol highlights the growing role of women in grassroots activism and public discourse, particularly during a period of heightened political and social developments.

The Azadi Times will continue to monitor related developments and provide verified updates as more information becomes available

No Negotiations Underway With Awami Action Committee Says Prime Minister Barrister Sultan Mahmood

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No Negotiations Underway With Awami Action Committee Says Prime Minister Barrister Sultan Mahmood

Statement comes amid ongoing protests and political mobilisation across Pakistan-administered Kashmir

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — Prime Minister Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry has said that no negotiations are currently being held with the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), amid continuing demonstrations and political mobilisation across the region.

According to remarks attributed to the prime minister, reports suggesting ongoing talks between the government and the Awami Action Committee are inaccurate.

“There are no negotiations taking place with the Awami Action Committee,” Barrister Sultan Mahmood said, rejecting speculation about any formal dialogue process between the two sides.

The statement comes at a time when Pakistan-administered Kashmir has witnessed widespread shutdowns, public demonstrations, and increased political activity in several districts. Calls for dialogue and a peaceful resolution to ongoing tensions have been made by various political figures, civil society representatives, and community leaders.

The Awami Action Committee has remained at the center of recent public mobilization campaigns, with supporters advocating for a range of political and public-interest demands.

It remains unclear whether either side intends to pursue dialogue in the coming days. No further details were immediately provided regarding possible future engagement between the government and movement representatives.

The latest remarks are likely to draw attention as stakeholders continue to debate possible pathways toward de-escalation and addressing public concerns.

The Azadi Times will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.

At Least 23 People Reportedly Killed Since June 5 Amid Ongoing Unrest in Pakistan-Administered Kashmir

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At Least 23 People Reportedly Killed Since June 5 Amid Ongoing Unrest in Pakistan-Administered Kashmir

Casualty figures continue to emerge as tensions and public mobilisation persist across the region

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — At least 23 people have reportedly lost their lives since June 5 amid ongoing unrest, demonstrations, and related incidents across Pakistan-administered Kashmir, according to information compiled from local sources and preliminary reports.

The reported death toll comes as the region continues to witness widespread public mobilisation, shutdowns, and heightened tensions in several districts. Independent verification of all reported casualties remains ongoing, and authorities have yet to release a comprehensive official account covering incidents reported across the region during this period.

Local observers describe the past several days as among the most turbulent in recent years, with demonstrations, security operations, road blockades, communication disruptions, and public gatherings reported from multiple areas.

Human rights advocates and civil society groups have called for transparency regarding casualty figures and have urged authorities to ensure independent investigations into incidents that resulted in loss of life.

Given the evolving nature of the situation, casualty figures may be subject to revision as additional information becomes available.

The Azadi Times is continuing to document developments and verify information from multiple independent sources. A detailed report examining the reported fatalities, locations, and circumstances surrounding each incident will be published separately.

Neelum Valley Convoy Advances Towards Muzaffarabad Ahead of Coordinated Entry

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Neelum Valley Convoy Advances Towards Muzaffarabad Ahead of Coordinated Entry

March participants from Athmuqam expected to join convoys arriving from Rawalakot in a synchronized move

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — A convoy travelling from Neelum Valley is expected to advance towards Muzaffarabad today, according to organisers and local sources, as public mobilisation continues across multiple districts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Sources said the convoy is currently positioned in the Athmuqam area and is preparing to continue its journey towards the regional capital. Organisers indicated that the group is expected to coordinate its arrival with convoys travelling from Rawalakot and other areas.

According to participants, the plan is for the various convoys to enter Muzaffarabad simultaneously, a move that organisers say is intended to demonstrate unity among participants arriving from different parts of the region.

The latest developments come amid ongoing demonstrations, shutdowns, and political activity that have drawn significant public attention across Pakistan-administered Kashmir in recent days. Residents and observers are closely monitoring the movement of convoys as they approach key entry points leading into Muzaffarabad.

At the time of publication, authorities had not issued an official statement regarding the planned entry of the convoys or any related administrative arrangements.

The Azadi Times will continue to monitor the situation and provide verified updates as further information becomes available.

Shutdown Strike Enters Third Day in Muzaffarabad as Markets Remain Closed

The Azadi Times
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Shutdown Strike Enters Third Day in Muzaffarabad as Markets Remain Closed

Businesses, public transport remain suspended while internet disruption continues across parts of Azad Kashmir

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — A widespread shutdown strike continued for a third consecutive day in Muzaffarabad on Thursday, with shops, markets, and public transport services remaining largely suspended across the city.

Residents reported that commercial centres remained closed throughout the day, while roads that are typically busy witnessed significantly reduced activity. Public transport services were also affected, creating difficulties for commuters and travelers.

The ongoing shutdown comes amid continued political tensions and public mobilisation across parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Local traders and residents described the strike as one of the most significant disruptions to daily life witnessed in recent months.

Meanwhile, internet services remained unavailable in many areas for a fifth consecutive day, according to residents and local sources. The communication disruptions have affected access to information, business operations, and contact with family members both within and outside the region.

Reports from several districts also suggested difficulties in obtaining fuel, with concerns growing over the availability of petrol at some filling stations. However, the extent of fuel shortages could not be independently verified at the time of publication.

Authorities have yet to issue a comprehensive public statement regarding the continuation of the shutdown, internet disruptions, or reported fuel supply concerns.

The developments have drawn increasing attention as residents continue to face challenges in transportation, communication, and access to essential services.

The Azadi Times is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more verified information becomes available.

Military Helicopter Crashes Near Muzaffarabad All On Board Killed Says ISPR

The Azadi Times
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Military Helicopter Crashes Near Muzaffarabad All On Board Killed Says ISPR

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — A Pakistan Army Aviation MI-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad on Wednesday after reportedly suffering a technical malfunction during takeoff, killing all personnel on board, according to a statement issued by the military’s media wing.

The military statement said the helicopter went down shortly after takeoff due to a technical fault. While confirming that no one on board survived the crash, authorities did not immediately disclose the number of personnel who were killed.

Rescue and emergency teams were dispatched to the crash site shortly after the incident and initiated recovery operations, the statement added.

The military also announced the formation of a Board of Inquiry to determine the exact circumstances and technical causes behind the crash. Investigators are expected to examine flight records, maintenance history, and other relevant evidence as part of the inquiry.

In its statement, the military said senior officials, including the Chief of Army Staff, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and members of the armed forces, expressed grief over the loss of life and extended condolences to the families of those killed.

Separately, Muzaffarabad Deputy Commissioner Munir Ahmed confirmed to local media that a helicopter crash had occurred in the district. However, he said authorities were still assessing the situation and that additional details were not immediately available.

The incident has drawn widespread attention across Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where residents and officials are awaiting further information regarding the identities of those killed and the findings of the forthcoming investigation.

The Azadi Times will continue to monitor developments and update this report as more verified information becomes available.

Claims of Atif Maqbool Arrest Denied as Supporters Reject False Reports

The Azadi Times
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Claims of Atif Maqbool Arrest Denied as Supporters Reject False Reports

Statement says activist remains free and continues involvement in public rights movement

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — Claims circulating on social media and through unofficial channels regarding the alleged arrest of public rights activist Atif Maqbool have been strongly denied by his supporters, who describe the reports as “baseless” and “misleading.”

In a statement issued on Tuesday, individuals associated with Maqbool said that attempts were being made to create confusion among the public through what they called false propaganda and unverified information.

“The reports claiming that Atif Maqbool has been arrested are entirely unfounded,” the statement said. “Atif Maqbool remains free and continues to play an active role in the ongoing struggle for public rights.”

The statement further urged residents to exercise caution when sharing information online and to avoid relying on unverified reports circulating on social media platforms.

Supporters appealed to the public to seek information from official and credible sources, warning that misinformation can contribute to uncertainty and public anxiety during periods of heightened political activity.

The Azadi Times has not independently verified the claims regarding Maqbool’s whereabouts. No official statement from authorities regarding any alleged arrest was immediately available at the time of publication.

The clarification comes amid an atmosphere of intense political mobilisation and widespread public interest in developments unfolding across Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Expresses Concern Over Developments in Azad Kashmir

The Azadi Times
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Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Expresses Concern Over Developments in Azad Kashmir

Kashmiri religious and political leader urges dialogue, restraint, and peaceful resolution amid rising tensions

SRINAGAR — Kashmiri religious and political leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has expressed deep concern over recent developments in Azad Kashmir, calling for restraint, dialogue, and a peaceful approach to addressing public grievances.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mirwaiz said reports emerging from across the Line of Control had caused him “serious concern,” particularly allegations that civilians and police personnel had lost their lives during ongoing unrest and protests.

“The reports coming from across the LoC are deeply worrying. The loss of civilian lives and police personnel during protests is extremely unfortunate,” Mirwaiz said, according to the statement.

He emphasized that governments should not rely on force as a primary response to public grievances and demands. Instead, he argued, authorities should engage with citizens through dialogue and democratic processes.

“When people take to the streets to express their concerns and problems, it is a signal that they want their voices to be heard,” he said. “Those in power have a responsibility to listen, engage with the public, and seek peaceful solutions rather than allowing situations to escalate into violence, arbitrary arrests, and loss of life.”

Mirwaiz further expressed hope that decision-makers would act with wisdom and restraint, addressing public concerns through meaningful engagement and avoiding further escalation.

The statement comes amid heightened political tensions and public mobilization across parts of Azad Kashmir, where demonstrations and shutdowns have drawn significant public attention in recent days.

The Azadi Times could not independently verify casualty figures referenced in the statement. Authorities have yet to provide comprehensive public information regarding several reported incidents linked to the ongoing unrest.

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