The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission suspended and arrested two presiding officers in Kotli after they allegedly failed to report to their assigned polling stations.
According to the Election Commission, the officers returned to their private residences instead of performing their election duties. Consequently, the commission took immediate action to prevent any disruption to the polling process.
Election Commission Takes Immediate Action
Following the incident, the Election Commission detained both presiding officers. Authorities also handed over the polling bags to the returning officer, who immediately secured them.
Meanwhile, the commission appointed two new presiding officers without delay. They were then dispatched to the respective polling stations to ensure the voting process continued without interruption.
The swift action aimed to maintain the smooth conduct of polling across the affected constituencies.
Proceedings Initiated Against Arrested Officers
An Election Commission spokesperson confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated against the arrested officers under election laws.
The spokesperson stressed that “negligence or irregularities will not be tolerated.”
He further added that “the polling process will remain transparent, impartial, and uninterrupted, with all necessary steps taken to safeguard credibility.”
The commission said it remains committed to enforcing election laws throughout the polling process.
Voting Underway in Mirpur Division
The incident occurred as voters headed to polling stations across 13 constituencies in Mirpur division during the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir elections.
Despite the disciplinary action, polling continued after replacement officers assumed their responsibilities. As a result, election activities remained on schedule in the affected polling stations.
Tight Security in Place Across the Region
Authorities have already implemented strict security arrangements to ensure peaceful voting throughout the region.
At the same time, political observers believe the contest between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has attracted significant attention. Although both parties are allies in Pakistan’s federal government, they remain key political rivals in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The Election Commission has also maintained security measures to address any potential election-related unrest during the polling process.
Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Transparent Elections
The disciplinary action against the two presiding officers reflects the Election Commission’s determination to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
By replacing the officers immediately and securing election materials, the commission ensured that polling continued without major disruption.
Officials also reaffirmed their commitment to conducting free, transparent and impartial elections. They emphasised that any negligence or violation of election laws will continue to face strict action throughout the polling process.
