Violence and Protests Disrupt Pakistan-administered Kashmir Elections

The Government of Pakistan-administered Kashmir faced widespread disruptions, logistical failures, and violent clashes during the second phase of legislative assembly elections on August 2, 2026. Polling across 21 constituencies, including those in the Muzaffarabad Division, was hindered by road blockades and protests. In constituency LA-27 Kotli, authorities were forced to postpone voting after election staff and materials failed to reach polling stations. Similar disruptions occurred in LA-28 Muzaffarabad-II.

The unrest is driven by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a coalition of traders, lawyers, and students demanding governance reforms, lower living costs, and the removal of 12 refugee-reserved assembly seats. The regional government responded by banning the JAAC, designating it a terrorist organization, and restricting internet access. Protests expanded beyond the region to Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Karachi, where police used baton charges and mass arrests to disperse student gatherings.

Casualties have risen sharply since the first phase of voting on July 27. The JAAC alleges security forces killed between 44 and 60 civilians, while Inspector General Liaqat Ali Malik reported the deaths of seven police officers and over 200 injuries. Despite boycott calls and security crackdowns, early results indicate the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz won most seats, though the Pakistan People's Party has alleged electoral rigging. The final round of voting is scheduled for August 10 in the Poonch division.