New Delhi, July 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Polling commenced on Monday in the first phase of elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) amid allegations from opposition groups and activists that Pakistan’s military is attempting to influence the electoral process.
More than 1.4 million registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots across 13 Assembly constituencies in the districts of Bhimber, Mirpur and Kotli. Authorities have established over 2,500 polling stations and declared a public holiday to encourage voter participation.
The electoral exercise has, however, been overshadowed by allegations of military interference and concerns over the credibility of the polls.
The Awami Action Committee (AAC), which has led months of protests in the region over governance and public welfare issues, has called for a boycott of the elections, describing the process as a “sham” and alleging that political outcomes in PoK are influenced by Pakistan’s security establishment.
The organisation has urged voters to stay away from the polls, claiming the outcome has already been predetermined. It has also questioned whether the elections can be conducted in a free and fair manner.
Opposition voices have similarly raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process, despite the administration maintaining that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure transparent and peaceful polling.
Ahead of voting, authorities imposed restrictions on political rallies and public gatherings, citing security considerations. Officials said the measures were aimed at ensuring law and order during the election.
Political observers said voter turnout in the first phase would be closely watched as an indicator of public confidence in the electoral process. They noted that participation levels could influence the political narrative for the remaining phases of the elections.
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) are among the major political parties contesting the polls. Around 300 candidates are in the fray for the 13 Assembly seats.
Of these, 135 candidates are contesting six seats in Kotli district, while voters in Mirpur and Bhimber will decide the remaining seven seats. Together, the two districts account for approximately 750,000 registered voters.
The elections come against the backdrop of prolonged protests in PoK led by the AAC, which has been demanding improved infrastructure, governance reforms and greater public welfare measures.
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