The biggest incident took place in Bhimbar, where a clash broke out between workers of different political parties at a polling station.
PoK polls turn violent; ballot box set on fire, 20 killed, several injured: The first phase of elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) turned violent on Monday(July 27). At least 20 people were killed and several others injured. The unrest deepened the allegations of poll rigging and the region’s continuing political instability by the rival parties.
After weeks of heavy tension and protests in the region, the election has been divided into three phases due to security reasons. The first round of polling began in Mirpur division amid heavy security. The biggest incident took place in Bhimbar, where a clash broke out between workers of different political parties at a polling station. According to Pakistani media, a ballot box was allegedly stolen and later set on fire.
According to local media, 16 of the 20 dead have been identified, including Usman Nazir, brother of Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) leader Sardar Umar Nazir. The bloody conflict started when local citizens protested against the massive rigging and booth capturing by the Pakistani army and police in the elections. The violence erupted in Rawalakot’s Dreik Eidgah area, where large numbers of residents reportedly boycotted the elections and gathered to protest. According to the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) and local activists, Pakistani military personnel, Punjab Rangers and police opened fire on demonstrators, allegedly using live ammunition, long-range tear gas shells and snipers positioned at strategic locations.
There are 53 seats in the so-called assembly of PoK. Of these, 45 are directly elected, while eight seats are reserved for women, technocrats and clerics. The elections, originally scheduled for July 27, are being held in three phases from July 27 to August 10.
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