Islamabad, Pakistan – As polling stations opened in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, the city was already experiencing significant unrest, with two days of shutdowns and deserted streets hinting at widespread discontent. The atmosphere was strikingly similar to a city that had collectively decided to abstain from participating in the electoral process.
This unrest traces its roots back to June 5 when authorities imposed a ban on the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a local pressure group active in advocating for citizens’ rights amidst rising prices and governance concerns. What initially began as protests against economic hardships soon evolved into a rallying cry for the abolition of twelve seats within the regional Legislative Assembly designated for displaced Kashmiris presently residing elsewhere in Pakistan.
As tensions escalated, Pakistani authorities responded with a crackdown on JAAC leaders. This response culminated in a segmented voting process, where the elections were conducted in three phases due to the ongoing unrest. The Mirpur division led the way on July 27, followed by Muzaffarabad and twelve refugee constituencies last Sunday, with the Poonch division, a stronghold of the JAAC, scheduled to vote last on August 10.
An extensive internet shutdown lasting over 50 days has complicated campaigning efforts and hindered reporting from the region, further exacerbating the tense environment as heavy security measures were deployed across Muzaffarabad for the second phase of voting, which commenced at 8 a.m. local time.
Despite reports indicating a rising death toll of over 50 casualties, including law enforcement personnel, the government refrained from disclosing an official figure. The JAAC estimated that more than 60 civilians had perished amid the protests since June, emphasizing that their leaders chose not to contest the election and instead called for a boycott.
The citizens of Muzaffarabad expressed skepticism about the election process, believing it was less about the candidates and more about holding the political establishment accountable for long-standing grievances. Many conveyed that their votes would only empower those they perceived as exploitative and disconnected from the struggles of ordinary people.
Although a considerable number of residents opted to boycott the elections, some chose to participate, citing political alignment with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) as a response to the perceived threat posed by rival factions.
In a turbulent backdrop marked by political strife, heavy security measures, and the ongoing public demand for greater political representation, attention now turns to how the Poonch division’s voting will unfold and whether peaceful demonstrations can be channeled into constructive dialogue as the region navigates through its complex political landscape.
Additional reporting by Farhan Tariq in Muzaffarabad.
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