Pakistan-Administered Kashmir Holds Final-Phase Vote Amid Boycott
Azad Jammu and Kashmir held the third and final phase of its regional elections, after weeks of violent protests over rights and autonomy. Voting was disrupted by security fears and a boycott call from opposition and protest groups, and re-polling was ordered at some stations. Counting is under way, with no result yet declared.
The vote follows a period of unrest in the Pakistan-administered territory, where protesters have pressed demands over rights, subsidies and self-rule, and the boycott clouds the legitimacy of the outcome. Turnout and the conduct of the poll will be scrutinised, with the opposition alleging the process is skewed. The result matters for stability in a sensitive region claimed in full by both India and Pakistan, where any flare-up carries wider risks. Authorities deployed heavy security to contain trouble. Watch the count and whether the losing side accepts the outcome.