The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has postponed polling in seven constituencies of Poonch Division that was scheduled for August 10, citing the prevailing law and order situation.
In a statement issued on Friday, the commission said the decision was made after reviewing a report from the AJK Home Secretary, which highlighted security concerns in parts of Poonch and Sudhnoti districts. It added that several political leaders and election candidates had also requested a postponement.
The commission said a new polling date and revised election schedule for the affected constituencies would be announced after further assessment of the security situation.
Polling has been deferred in five constituencies of Poonch district — Rawalakot, Pachhiot, Ali Sojal, Hajira and Abbaspur — and two constituencies of Sudhnoti district — Palandri and Baloch.
However, voting will proceed as scheduled on August 10 in the three constituencies of Bagh district — Bagh Central, Bagh East and Bagh West — as well as the Haveli constituency, making them the only four seats to participate in the third phase of the AJK general elections.