MUZAFFARABAD (Web Desk) – The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has declared a public holiday across Mirpur Division on July 27 to facilitate the first phase of polling for the AJK Legislative Assembly elections, as authorities step up preparations to ensure a peaceful, transparent and orderly electoral process.
The decision was taken following a formal request from the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission, which sought administrative support to enable voters to participate freely in the elections. The Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) later issued an official notification confirming the public holiday.
According to the notification, the holiday will apply only to the districts falling under Mirpur Division, where voters will cast their ballots during the opening phase of the three-stage election schedule. Government offices, educational institutions and other public sector departments in the division are expected to remain closed on polling day, except for essential emergency services.
Election officials said the measure is intended to encourage maximum voter participation while reducing administrative and traffic-related challenges that could affect polling activities. Authorities believe the holiday will allow citizens to exercise their democratic right without disruption.
Addressing a press conference in Muzaffarabad, AJK Chief Election Commissioner Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said the Legislative Assembly elections would be conducted in three separate phases to ensure effective security arrangements and smooth election management across the region.
He said the first phase of polling would take place in Mirpur Division on July 27, followed by elections in Muzaffarabad Division and the 12 refugee constituencies on August 2. The third and final phase will be held in Poonch Division on August 10.
The Chief Election Commissioner explained that holding elections in phases would help authorities deploy security personnel more effectively while ensuring transparency and efficient management of polling stations. He added that the phased schedule would also enable election staff to perform their responsibilities more efficiently.
To maintain law and order during the electoral process, the Pakistan Army, police and other law enforcement agencies will be deployed at sensitive polling stations and important public locations. Security officials have been instructed to remain on high alert throughout the election period.
The Election Commission has also directed district administrations to complete all logistical arrangements before polling begins. Election materials, ballot papers and polling equipment are being transported to designated locations under strict security measures.
Officials said polling staff would receive final training before election day to ensure compliance with electoral laws and voting procedures. Monitoring teams will also be deployed to oversee polling activities and address complaints promptly.
The AJK government has appealed to voters to participate responsibly and cooperate with election officials and security personnel. Citizens have also been advised to carry valid identification documents while visiting polling stations.
Political parties have intensified their election campaigns across the region, with candidates holding public meetings and interacting with voters ahead of the first phase of polling. Election observers expect a competitive contest in several constituencies, reflecting the significance of the Legislative Assembly elections.
Authorities said special arrangements have been made to facilitate elderly voters, women and persons with disabilities at polling stations. Measures have also been introduced to improve crowd management and ensure uninterrupted polling throughout the day.
Election officials expressed confidence that the phased electoral process would strengthen democratic institutions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir while ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their vote in a peaceful environment.
With administrative preparations nearing completion and security plans finalised, all attention is now focused on the first phase of polling in Mirpur Division, which will mark the beginning of the electoral process to elect members of the next Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
