In pictures: Kashmir votes amid boycott call

The Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir has begun voting for a new government. It is one of the most politically sensitive areas in South Asia. India and Pakistan have fought two wars over Kashmir.

Voting is in seven phases staged over five weeks. Observers were surprised at the high turnout on the first day as separatists seeking independence from India had urged a poll boycott.

Here a policewoman frisks a voter. Security is particularly tight because there have been massive anti-India demonstrations by Kashmiri Muslims in recent months.

Security forces are stationed on every road in the state.

Police have used tear gas to break up some protests. Here a woman lies on the ground after one such confrontation.

These women boycotted the poll and are shouting anti-India slogans in defiance of the security forces.

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