Kashmir Elections Spark Protests and Violence

The first phase of elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir descended into violent protests over alleged vote rigging, leaving at least 20 people dead.

The PML-N claimed victory, while coalition partners PPP and PML-N traded barbs after the conclusion of voting, with Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari's party alleging rigging.

The banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) was accused of trying to disrupt the elections through unrest, with authorities claiming a significant number of Fitna Al Khawarij terrorists were present among the protesters.

India dismissed the polls as a 'cosmetic exercise' to mask illegal occupation.