MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has announced a public holiday in the Mirpur Division on July 27 following a recommendation from the Election Commission, as preparations intensify for the first phase of the Legislative Assembly elections.
As per the notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department, polling for the first phase of the AJK Legislative Assembly elections will take place across the Mirpur Division on Sunday, July 27.
The notification clarified that the public holiday will be applicable only within the territorial limits of the Mirpur Division to facilitate the smooth conduct of the electoral process and enable voters to exercise their democratic right.
Meanwhile, the district administration in Bhimber has imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code to maintain law and order during the election period. Under the orders issued by the District Magistrate, public gatherings, political rallies, processions, and the display of weapons have been prohibited until further notice.
The district administration warned that anyone found violating the restrictions would face strict legal action in accordance with the law. Officials stated that cases would be registered against individuals breaching the imposed restrictions, focusing on that the measures have been introduced to ensure a peaceful and secure environment during the elections.
Separately, Chief Election Commissioner of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Justice (Retired) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, dismissed rumors regarding a possible postponement of the elections, confirming that polling would be held on July 27 as scheduled.
The Chief Election Commissioner said all essential election materials had been successfully delivered to the offices of the respective Returning Officers (ROs), ensuring that logistical preparations were complete well ahead of polling day.
He further stated that polling by government employees would be conducted in all districts except Rawalakot and Sudhnoti.
Justice Mughal also emphasized that comprehensive security arrangements had been finalized to ensure the peaceful conduct of the elections.
He reasserted that the Election Commission is fully prepared to hold transparent, free, fair, and credible elections, expressing confidence that all necessary administrative and security measures are in place to facilitate a smooth electoral process across the region.
