Regional elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir have been marred by deadly violence, with protests and clashes between demonstrators and security forces leaving several people dead and many others injured.
The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) secured nine of the 13 seats contested in the first phase of the elections held in Mirpur, Kotli, and Bhimber districts. The election, originally planned for a single day, was divided into three phases due to security concerns, with the remaining rounds scheduled for August 2 and August 10.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), founded by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, boycotted the elections, alleging widespread electoral fraud and irregularities.
Leaders of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a major protest movement in the region, claimed that more than 30 people were killed during clashes around Rawalakot. However, the reported death toll could not be independently verified because internet, banking, and road services have been severely disrupted.
Pakistani authorities confirmed that one security officer was killed and five others were injured during the unrest. Officials also acknowledged that at least three protesters died in separate incidents in Mirpur.
The Pakistani government has accused armed militants, allegedly backed by India, of infiltrating the protests. India has previously rejected similar allegations.
Residents and opposition figures have accused the authorities of manipulating the election process, while the government has denied the claims and insisted the voting was conducted fairly.
Political tensions in Pakistan-administered Kashmir have intensified in recent years, fueled by demands for greater regional autonomy, electoral reforms, and concerns over economic neglect. Protesters have also criticized the allocation of reserved legislative seats, arguing that they allow Islamabad to exert undue influence over local politics.
Analysts say the PML-N may need the support of representatives from the reserved seats to form the next regional government, a move that could further deepen political divisions in the region.
Despite the completion of the first phase of voting, disputes over the election results and ongoing unrest have raised concerns about the credibility of the electoral process and the prospects for lasting stability in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
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