Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir Elections: Concerns Over Human Rights and Political Controversy Deepen

Political controversy and concerns over human rights have deepened ahead of the assembly elections in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), which is an integral part of India. The United Nations (UN) had expressed concern over the deaths, arrests, internet shutdowns, and restrictions imposed on peaceful demonstrations before the elections. Meanwhile, Pakistan has decided to hold the elections in three phases, changing the schedule to simultaneous polls on July 27. Under pressure from the Pakistan government, the Election Commission says that this decision has been taken in view of the security arrangements and the demand of political parties, but the opposition parties and protesting organizations are viewing it with suspicion. Earlier, the elections to all the seats of PoJK were to be held on July 27, but now the elections will be held in three phases. According to the Election Commission of Pakistan, this change has been made to ensure better deployment of security forces. The Chief Election Commissioner said that this decision has been taken after consultation with the political parties so that the polls can be held peacefully and all preparations are completed on time. According to the Pakistan Election Commission (PTI), the political parties including the United Nations (UN) have announced to hold the elections a few days before.