Polling has begun for the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections, with voting continuing from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The first phase covers 13 constituencies across the Mirpur Division, including the districts of Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber. A total of 296 candidates representing the Pakistan Peoples Party, Pakistan Muslim League (N), Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party, independent candidates and other political groups are contesting.
According to election authorities, the 13 constituencies have 1,401,439 registered voters, including 725,118 men and 675,628 women.
A total of 2,454 polling stations have been established across the division, including 597 in Mirpur, 1,107 in Kotli and 608 in Bhimber.
Authorities have put comprehensive security arrangements in place for the elections. Azad Kashmir Chief Election Commissioner Justice (Retd.) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the voting process.
Chief Secretary Khushhal Khan said all state institutions are fully prepared to ensure peaceful elections and warned that anyone trying to interfere with the electoral process or disturb law and order would face legal action.
