Violent Clashes Rock Muzaffarabad as Second Phase of PoJK Elections Begins
MUZAFFARABAD: The second phase of assembly elections in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) was held under heavy security on Sunday, with violent clashes, burnt vehicles, blocked roads and widespread protests overshadowing the polling process in Muzaffarabad and surrounding areas. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Clashes and Security Tension
Eyewitnesses reported confrontations between protesters and security forces at several locations in Muzaffarabad, leaving streets littered with stones and damaged vehicles. Thousands of security personnel, including paramilitary forces, the Federal Constabulary and anti-riot police, were deployed to guard polling stations and maintain order.
Some local sources and protest groups alleged that security forces opened fire on civilians in parts of Muzaffarabad, resulting in deaths and injuries. Pakistani authorities have disputed aspects of these claims, and casualty figures remain contested.
Boycott Calls Overshadow Polls
The elections took place amid boycott calls from several opposition groups, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) PoJK, which has accused the authorities of electoral irregularities. The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a protest movement that has been banned by the regional administration, also urged residents to stay away from polling stations.
The election schedule had earlier been split into three phases because of the deteriorating security situation, with polling in some districts postponed until later in August.
Long-Running Unrest
The unrest follows months of demonstrations over governance, economic hardship and political representation.
One of the main demands of protesters is the abolition of legislative seats reserved for Kashmir-origin refugees living in Pakistan. Protest groups argue that these seats allow political parties backed by Islamabad to influence the composition of the regional assembly.
Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, have expressed concern over reports of excessive force, arbitrary arrests and restrictions on civil liberties, while calling for independent investigations into alleged abuses.
India’s Response
India has rejected the PoJK elections, reiterating its position that the entire region of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. The Ministry of External Affairs has also criticised Pakistan’s handling of the unrest and allegations of human rights violations.
Situation Remains Tense
With polling taking place amid heavy security, protest sit-ins and political tensions, the situation in Muzaffarabad and other parts of PoJK remains volatile. Authorities continue to monitor developments as the remaining phase of the elections is scheduled for later this month.
Suggested Graphics
Graphic 1: PoJK Election Unrest at a Glance
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Polling Phase | Second Phase |
| Main Location | Muzaffarabad |
| Security | Heavy deployment |
| Protests | Boycott calls and clashes |
| Key Issues | Governance, reserved seats, economic concerns |
Graphic 2: Timeline
- 📅 June–July 2026: Protests intensify across PoJK.
- 🚨 July 2026: Election schedule split into three phases due to security concerns.
- 🗳️ 2 August: Second phase of polling held amid clashes.
- 📍 Upcoming: Final phase of elections scheduled in remaining districts
