Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir protests intensify ahead of staggered assembly elections

Staggered legislative‑assembly polls in Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (PoK) are scheduled for July 27 to August 10, 2026. Analysts say the voting is unlikely to address deep‑seated grievances as the region is engulfed in large‑scale protests against the Pakistani administration.

Demonstrators, organized by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, are demanding lower wheat‑flour prices, reduced electricity tariffs, and the withdrawal of Pakistani troops. Clashes between protesters and security forces in June left dozens of civilians and police dead, prompting blockades that have cut off food and medical supplies. India has called on the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for alleged human‑rights abuses, while groups such as Amnesty International have voiced concern over the crackdown and communication blackouts.