First phase of AJK polls underway in Mirpur division amid allegations of rigging

The first phase of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections kicked off today in the Mirpur division with a public holiday declared to ease voter turnout. A total of 288 candidates are vying for seats across 13 constituencies, with polling happening at 2,316 stations. However, the process has been marred by accusations of electoral fraud, raising concerns over the integrity of the vote. This election is crucial as it determines the political landscape of the region, and any irregularities could have significant implications for future governance and regional stability.