Violence Mars Opening Day of Kashmir Regional Election in Pakistan

Clashes hit Pakistan-administered Kashmir on July 28, 2026, as voting began for the 53-seat AJK Legislative Assembly, ending weeks of pre-election unrest that killed dozens. Twelve seats reserved for refugees from Indian-administered Kashmir tie the vote to the broader territorial conflict. A civil rights group protesting electricity prices and seat quotas was banned under anti-terror laws; supporters clashed with police through election day.