India-occupied Kashmir votes in final round of elections for new government

India-occupied Kashmir held its final round of voting on Tuesday to elect a new government. This is the first election since the region lost its partial autonomy in 2019, when New Delhi imposed direct control, leading to mass arrests and a communication blackout. The election has seen a heavy security presence, with over half a million troops deployed. Local parties are campaigning on issues like high unemployment and the demand for restored autonomy, while voter turnout in earlier rounds exceeded 55 percent. Despite the elections, key governance decisions will remain with the central government in Delhi, which can override any local assembly legislation. Election results are set to be announced on October 8.