Escalating Unrest in Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir Triggers Low Voter Turnout and Election Delays

Phase 2 of the elections in Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (PoK) saw widespread boycotts and violent clashes, especially in the Muzaffarabad division. Voter turnout fell to an average of 42 percent, with many polling stations empty; voting in several constituencies was postponed until August 4 after security forces clashed with demonstrators, killing three Rangers and bringing the total death toll since early June to 127.

JUI‑F chief Maulana Fazl‑ur‑Rehman warned that the protest movement has spread beyond PoK to other parts of Pakistan and Europe, claiming around 80 people have been killed since June 5. He urged the Joint Awami Action Committee to exercise restraint and called on the Pakistani government to pursue a political settlement rather than rely on force.