Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission has imposed a ban on carrying mobile phones and any devices capable of recording photographs or videos inside polling stations during the ongoing elections.
The directive was issued on the instructions of the Chief Election Commissioner of Gilgit-Baltistan under the provisions of the Elections Act 2017. The election staff, candidates, polling agents, and voters will not be allowed to carry mobile phones inside polling stations throughout the voting process.
In this regard, the election officials stated that the measure has been introduced to protect the confidentiality of votes and to strengthen public confidence in the fairness and integrity of the electoral process.
However, the restriction will not apply to accredited media representatives and election observers who have been formally approved by the Election Commission.
These individuals will be permitted to carry communication and recording devices in accordance with the guidelines issued by the relevant authorities.
The Chief Election Commissioner has directed District Returning Officers and Returning Officers across Gilgit-Baltistan to ensure strict implementation of the orders.
The legal action will be taken against anyone found violating the directive. Such action will be carried out under the relevant provisions of the Elections Act 2017.
Meanwhile, the electoral process is underway across Gilgit-Baltistan, where polling is being held for 24 seats of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly. Voters have been arriving at polling stations to cast their ballots as election authorities continue to oversee the process.
The Election Commission reasserted its commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections and urged all stakeholders, including voters, candidates, and polling staff, to cooperate fully with election regulations to ensure the successful completion of the democratic process.
