14 killed in POK poll violence. Pak's democracy claims busted? Statecraft examines

India Today Statecraft covers political developments, global conflicts, and natural disasters. In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the first phase of polling experienced violence, including the death of a political worker, ballot box destruction, and clashes at polling stations. Major political forces were absent, while constitutional rules restricted candidate choices, raising questions about political autonomy and governance in the region. Meanwhile, diplomatic discussions occurred in Washington DC amid a pause in military strikes between the US and Iran. Concerns were raised over military ammunition supplies and casualties, with updated defence data indicating over six hundred American service members killed or wounded since late February. In regional developments, Oman proposed joint management of the Strait of Hormuz, while oil prices dropped globally. Additionally, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Japan, causing power outages, structural damage, fires, overturned trains, and injuries. In shots fired outside the United States Consulate General in Toronto, an investigation was launched. Finally, Indian athletes secured multiple medals at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.