Polls in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir put off amid security concerns; UN takes note

Elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have been delayed due to security concerns, with violence and crackdowns resulting in the deaths of several protestors. Of the 11 seats, polling for four seats was conducted on Monday, while the remaining seven will be postponed indefinitely. The Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) claims victory in 24 seats after the first two phases held on July 27 and August 2.

The banned civil society group Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has called for a boycott of the elections, expressing concerns over the deteriorating security situation and perceived human rights violations by Islamabad. The United Nations has raised alarm over the security situation in PoK, calling for accountability for actions against peaceful protestors.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has demanded an impartial investigation into the deaths of protesters and Pakistan's ban on the JAAC and its leaders. India maintains that PoK is an integral part of its territory, while Pakistan claims illegal occupation. The foreign media's movement in PoK has been restricted, drawing criticism from international media organizations and rights groups.