Third phase polling for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections began Monday in four constituencies [1].
These elections determine the legislative leadership of the region, serving as a critical indicator of political stability and public sentiment in the Poonch Division.
Voting is currently taking place across the Bagh and Haveli districts [2]. The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission established 803 polling stations to accommodate the process [3]. According to data from Dawn, there are 460,371 eligible voters in these two districts [3].
While the third phase was intended to cover more ground, the Election Commission revised the plan earlier this week. Polling in the Poonch and Sudhanoti districts was deferred due to security concerns [4]. This adjustment limited Monday's activity to the four specific constituencies in Bagh and Haveli [1].
Candidate numbers for this phase vary by report. Business Recorder said there are 72 candidates [1], while Dunya News said there are 82 candidates [5]. The discrepancy reflects the fluid nature of candidate filings in the regional race.
Security personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety of voters and officials. The deferred voting in other parts of the division remains a focal point for observers monitoring the overall integrity of the election cycle [4].
“Polling in the Poonch and Sudhanoti districts was deferred due to security concerns.”
The deferment of voting in Poonch and Sudhanoti highlights ongoing security vulnerabilities within the region. By splitting the third phase, the Election Commission is attempting to balance the democratic requirement of holding elections with the practical necessity of maintaining order. The final results from the Bagh and Haveli districts will provide a partial picture of the political landscape before the deferred votes are eventually cast.
