Security can’t be an excuse to delay democracy
Elections for 7 seats in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir have been postponed indefinitely. Reason: “violent clashes and security crackdowns.” The UN has taken note.
This follows protests over rising prices and lack of political rights. At least a dozen were killed in the last phase. Now the Pakistan Muslim League-N claims victory in 24 seats, while the Joint Awami Action Committee has called for a boycott.
New Delhi called it a “grave violation of human rights.” It’s right to. People in PoK are denied real representation. Islamabad runs the show through handpicked parties and security forces.
Postponing polls doesn’t bring peace. It breeds more anger. When people cannot vote, they protest. When protests are met with bullets, they radicalize.
The UN’s comment was mild but pointed: accountability is needed. That’s diplomatic speak for “this is not okay.”
India’s stand should be consistent: PoK is part of India, and its people deserve the same rights as those in J&K. That means free elections, free press, and free speech.
Postponement is not governance. It’s surrender to instability. And it proves what Kashmiris have said for years: without democracy, there is only force.