Shigar set for GB Assembly polls as preparations finalised and security tightened

By Abid Shigri

SHIGAR: With just one day left before the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections 2026, authorities in Shigar have finalised all major arrangements as polling day preparations enter their final phase, with election officials, security forces and polling staff actively engaged in pre-poll duties.

Final preparations and election logistics in full swing

According to officials, the Election Commission has completed all necessary arrangements for the smooth conduct of polling scheduled for June 7. Election material has been dispatched to various areas across the district, while polling staff has begun reporting and, in some cases, casting their votes through the official early voting process.

Deployment of polling staff at designated stations has entered its final stage, while returning officer offices remain busy with last-minute coordination and administrative activity. Election officials said that efforts are focused on ensuring that all logistical requirements are met in time for polling day, with teams working across multiple locations simultaneously.

Campaigning has also reached its concluding phase, with candidates intensifying efforts as the electoral environment becomes increasingly active ahead of the vote. Officials have confirmed that preparations for all 71 polling stations in the district have been completed, ensuring readiness for smooth polling operations.

Election authorities further stated that Shigar is fully prepared for the upcoming electoral exercise, with administrative and logistical systems in place to support a peaceful and organised voting process. They added that the outcome of the elections is expected to play an important role in shaping the district’s political future.

Security deployment and sensitive polling stations

Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened to ensure a peaceful polling process. Out of the total 71 polling stations in Shigar, 17 have been declared highly sensitive, while 26 have been categorised as sensitive, prompting enhanced security deployment at these locations.

To support local law enforcement, around 350 personnel from the Punjab Police have arrived in Shigar and will assist district police in maintaining law and order during the electoral process. These forces will be deployed alongside Pakistan Army personnel, local police and other law enforcement agencies, all of whom have been placed on high alert.

Officials said special security measures have been implemented to safeguard both voters and polling staff, particularly in sensitive and highly sensitive areas. Surveillance, patrolling and static deployment plans have been finalised to ensure uninterrupted polling activity.

Meanwhile, the district administration and election authorities continue to monitor the overall process closely, with coordination centres actively overseeing developments on the ground.

With voter enthusiasm reportedly high and public attention focused on the June 7 polls, Shigar is poised for a closely watched electoral contest that is expected to have significant political implications for the region.