Polling stations have opened in Pakistan-administered Kashmir for elections, as the region faces a tense security situation and recent political unrest.
The election is taking place amid heightened concerns over security following incidents of violence and political tension in the region. Security forces have been deployed to protect voters, election officials and polling stations.
The vote is politically significant, with political parties competing for control of the regional assembly and the opportunity to form the next government.
Kashmir has long been disputed between Pakistan and India, with the territorial conflict remaining a major source of tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbours for decades.
Analysts say the election results could have an important impact on the region’s political direction, particularly as authorities face challenges related to security, economic difficulties and public demands for better governance.
Despite the violence and tensions surrounding the election, polling stations have opened to allow voters to choose their representatives. Election officials are expected to announce the results after voting ends and ballots are counted.