Voting is underway in four constituencies across Bagh and Haveli districts as Azad Jammu and Kashmir enters the third phase of its Legislative Assembly elections, with extensive security arrangements in place for the closely watched contests.
Polling began at 8am on Monday and is scheduled to continue until 5pm. Three constituencies in Bagh and one in Haveli are voting, with approximately 460,000 registered voters eligible to cast ballots. A total of 82 candidates are competing across the four seats.
Security remains a major focus during the final phase. Of the 803 polling stations established for the contests, most have been classified as either sensitive or highly sensitive. According to the Election Commission, an additional 10,300 security personnel have been deployed to maintain order and protect voters, polling staff and election material.
The contests could further shape the balance of power in the incoming AJK government. PML-N has already secured 24 seats during the completed phases, while PPP holds 10. The latest voting therefore comes with PML-N already in a strong position as the political process moves towards government formation.
Attention is also focused on several high-profile candidates, with three serving or former AJK prime ministers involved in important constituency contests. Their results could carry political significance beyond the four individual seats.
The final phase follows earlier polling that generated political disputes, allegations of irregularities and heightened security concerns. Election authorities have repeatedly urged parties and voters to rely on verified information, particularly as videos and claims about polling circulate rapidly on social media.
For local communities, a peaceful conclusion would also help limit disruption to transport, markets and everyday commercial activity in Bagh and Haveli. Any contested results or serious incidents, however, could prolong political tensions after voting ends.
Since polling remains underway, turnout figures, constituency leads and reports of incidents should be treated as provisional until verified. Unofficial results are expected after polls close, but winners will only be considered confirmed following notification by the Election Commission.
