PoK Polls Marred By Violence As PPP Worker Killed, Ballot Box Burnt Amid Rigging Claims

The first phase of elections for the legislative assembly in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) was overshadowed by violence, with one Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) worker killed, several people injured and allegations of electoral irregularities exchanged between rival political parties.

The deceased, identified as Mukhtar Younus, was killed during clashes in the Nikyal area of Kotli district, according to the PPP, which alleged that firing by Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML N) supporters caused the death. Two others were also reported injured. PML N rejected the accusations and both parties accused each other of attempting to influence the election process.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari questioned the authorities’ response, asking, “Where are the relevant authorities? What is the Election Commission doing?” after the killing of the party worker.

The unrest disrupted voting in several areas, with reports of clashes between political supporters, heated exchanges and polling interruptions. A ballot box was reportedly burnt during the violence, adding to concerns over the credibility of the electoral process.

The first phase covered constituencies in the Mirpur division as part of a three phase election schedule running from July 27 to August 10. The assembly has 53 seats, including 45 directly elected seats and eight reserved seats for women, technocrats and religious representatives.

The elections are being held amid heightened tensions following weeks of protests by the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) over governance issues, including demands related to the 12 refugee seats. Authorities had earlier imposed restrictions after deadly clashes during the protests.

Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI), led by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, boycotted the elections. India has maintained that Pakistan is in illegal occupation of parts of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

reported that PML N later emerged ahead in the first phase results, winning nine seats, while opposition parties continued raising allegations of irregularities.