The Azad Kashmir elections have hit a point of contention as the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has formally accused the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) of widespread rigging during the ongoing polling process.

As of today, 6 August 2026, the third phase of the Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections is underway across the Poonch Division. Voting is currently being held in four key constituencies, specifically covering the districts of Bagh and Haveli. While the process began early this morning, reports of administrative interference have already triggered a political standoff.

Details of Rigging Allegations in Poonch

The PPP leadership claims that the polling process has been compromised in several areas to favor the ruling party. Specifically, the party has raised alarms regarding irregularities in constituencies LA-15 and LA-16, located within the Bagh district. According to party representatives, unauthorized individuals were seen influencing voters inside polling stations, and several ballot boxes were allegedly tampered with before the official count began.

"We are witnessing a blatant attempt to subvert the mandate of the people in the Azad Kashmir elections," a senior PPP spokesperson stated. The party has demanded that the Election Commission of AJK immediately take notice of these complaints and deploy additional security forces to ensure the sanctity of the remaining voting hours.

Impact on the Electoral Process

The current atmosphere in Bagh and Haveli remains tense. Supporters of both the PPP and PML-N have gathered outside various polling stations, leading to minor scuffles in some areas. The local administration has deployed heavy contingents of police and paramilitary forces to maintain law and order, though political leaders from the opposition argue that these measures are insufficient to prevent pre-poll and polling-day manipulation.

Local observers are concerned that these allegations could lead to a delay in the final results if the Election Commission decides to conduct a probe into specific polling stations. As of now, the ECP has not issued a formal statement regarding the specific complaints filed by the PPP.

What You Should Watch Next

If you are a voter in the affected districts, ensure you carry your original CNIC to the polling station. For those tracking the results, keep an eye on the official AJK Election Commission website for the latest updates on turnout and any official announcements regarding potential re-polling in disputed areas.

  • Monitor official channels for any suspension of polling.
  • Keep your identity documents ready if you haven't voted yet.
  • Follow local news updates for notifications on the final closing time of polling stations, which is expected to be 5:00 PM today unless extended by the authorities.