India says Pakistan crackdown kills over 40 in Kashmir

India has accused Pakistan of using "ruthless force" against peaceful protesters in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that a security crackdown has resulted in the deaths of more than 40 civilians. The allegations were made by Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a weekly media briefing on Friday, July 31, 2026.

Jaiswal stated that the Pakistani establishment continues to unleash force against civilians in the region, a crackdown he said has led to the tragic death of over 40 people and serious injuries to many more. He cited remarks reportedly made by Pakistan's Defence Minister, who branded protesting civilians as "enemies," as evidence of what he called the establishment's "absolute disdain" for the people.

The spokesperson also referenced comments attributed to Rana Sanaullah, Pakistan's Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs. Jaiswal characterized these remarks as an open admission that militant groups previously trained, funded, and armed by Pakistan to operate against India have now turned against the Pakistani state. According to Jaiswal, Sanaullah had stated in an interview that the protesters were "the same...