Violence Strikes First Day of Kashmir Regional Election in Pakistan

Clashes erupted across Pakistan-administered Kashmir on July 28, 2026, the first day of voting for the 53-seat AJK Legislative Assembly, capping weeks of pre-election unrest that killed dozens. Twelve disputed seats reserved for refugees from Indian-administered Kashmir anchor the contest to the broader territorial dispute. A civil rights group protesting electricity prices and seat quotas was banned under anti-terror laws; its supporters continued clashing with police through election day.