Violence and Internet Restrictions Mar Elections in Pakistan-Administered Kashmir

Voting for the first phase of local legislative elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir began Monday under heavy security following weeks of violent clashes that killed nearly 40 people.

Authorities have suspended mobile and internet services across most of the territory, which candidates claim has severely hampered their ability to campaign and reach the 3.8 million eligible voters.

The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, which was banned in June, has called for a boycott of the vote, protesting the reservation of 12 assembly seats for non-resident refugees.