Kotli: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission has suspended and arrested two presiding officers for alleged negligence in the performance of their election duties, appointing replacement officials to ensure the polling process continues without disruption.
According to reports, the two presiding officers failed to report to their designated polling stations and instead returned to their private residences. Upon receiving the information, the Election Commission took immediate action and ordered their arrest.
A spokesperson for the Election Commission said the Returning Officer took custody of the polling bags from the suspended officials, while new presiding officers were immediately assigned and dispatched to the respective polling stations to prevent any delay in the voting process.
The Election Commission stated that legal proceedings have been initiated against the arrested officials under the relevant election laws, stressing that any negligence or irregularity in the electoral process will not be tolerated.
The spokesperson further reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to conducting free, fair, transparent, and uninterrupted elections, adding that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard the integrity of the polling process.
Polling is underway today in 13 constituencies of the Mirpur Division as part of the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir elections, with election authorities stating that all arrangements had been completed in advance.
