Pakistan-administered Kashmir holds second-phase vote amid boycott, blackout, and 50+ protest deaths

Pakistan held the second phase of regional elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on August 2, 2026, as activists boycotted, businesses shut down, and a partial internet blackout — documented by NetBlocks since June 5 — entered its third month. Residents say protest deaths have surpassed 50; no official toll has been released. A final round is scheduled for August 10.