Peaceful PoK Rally Infiltrated by Pakistani Intel, LeT, Hizbul Operatives: Sources

Pakistani intel-linked operatives, LeT, Hizbul members infiltrated peaceful PoK protest to trigger unrest: Sources

A peaceful protest organised by the Awami Action Committee in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s (PoK) Rawalakot was allegedly infiltrated by operatives linked to Pakistani intelligence agencies and proscribed terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizbul Mujahideen to provoke violence, intelligence sources told CNN-News18.

The demonstration, held on July 27, was planned as a peaceful rally against governance and economic issues. According to organisers, participants carried white flags and were instructed to maintain discipline throughout the protest.

However, the gathering later turned violent, leading to clashes, firing and allegations of a subsequent security crackdown.

Intelligence claims planned infiltration

According to intelligence sources, plainclothes operatives linked to Pakistani intelligence agencies, along with members associated with LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen, had allegedly been planted among the protesters before the rally began.

The sources claimed these operatives incited sections of the crowd to resort to violence, creating conditions that could justify a forceful response by security agencies.

A senior intelligence source further alleged that the operation was carried out under the directions of Sector Commander Brigadier Faiq Ayoub, who was purportedly tasked by higher authorities with ending the Awami Action Committee’s agitation “by all means.”

Claims of firing during protest

Intelligence sources also alleged that armed operatives linked to LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen opened fire during the rally, transforming what organisers described as a peaceful demonstration into a violent confrontation.

The alleged violence was followed by clashes and reports of a security operation in the area.

Awami Action Committee alleges sabotage

Leaders of the Awami Action Committee have also accused authorities of deploying armed personnel in civilian clothing across different parts of PoK.

They insist the Rawalakot rally was intended to remain peaceful and allege that “mischief-makers” deliberately infiltrated the gathering to provoke unrest and discredit the movement.

The organisation has appealed to residents to remain vigilant against what it described as attempts to engineer violence and undermine public protests.

Tensions remain high

The allegations come amid continuing protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir over governance and economic concerns, with demonstrations attracting significant public participation in recent weeks.

Earlier reports had also alleged that security forces used force against protesters and imposed restrictions on the flow of information from affected areas.