Violence and Allegations Mar First Phase of Elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir

The first phase of elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir took place on Monday amid reports of violence, allegations of rigging, and clashes between political groups. The exercise, already seen as a major security challenge, was overshadowed by disruptions that included a ballot box being set on fire and the killing of a political worker.

Around 3.8 million people were eligible to vote for the region's Legislative Assembly. For the first time, polling was split into three phases after weeks of unrest and violent protests raised concerns about security. The opening round in the Mirpur Division took place under heavy security, but turnout appeared subdued in parts as temperatures soared.

The most serious disruption was reported from Bhimber, where a ballot box was seized and set on fire, destroying the votes inside. Election officials said the incident would be examined under election rules, and a decision on whether fresh polling is needed would be taken later. The episode triggered accusations that force was being used to influence the process. Election authorities insisted polling continued in most areas and described the violence as isolated.

In Kotli district, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) said its worker, Mukhtar Younus, was killed during an altercation in Nakyal. The party blamed political rivals, while opposing groups denied the allegation. Separately, the PPP lodged a complaint with the Election Commission, alleging armed men interfered with counting in LA-1 Mirpur.

The election took place against the backdrop of an ongoing confrontation between authorities and the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a civil society alliance that has led protests over governance and economic issues. JAAC alleged on social media that security forces opened fire on civilians in Rawalakot, claiming several people were killed and many injured. The group accused authorities of using excessive force and questioned the legitimacy of the elections in what it described as a repressive environment.

The polls come after nearly two months of widespread protests that left dozens dead, including security personnel. The demonstrations, led by JAAC, demanded the abolition of 12 Legislative Assembly seats reserved for refugees who settled in the region after 1947. Islamabad banned the organisation last month. The unrest also forced the Election Commission to change the schedule, splitting polling into three phases citing security concerns. Voting will conclude on August 10 in Poonch district, the epicentre of recent protests.

India continues to maintain that the entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are its integral parts and that Pakistan remains in illegal occupation of portions of these territories.