Mirpur: The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Monday extended polling by one hour in Mirpur Division following a higher-than-expected voter turnout during the first phase of the 2026 Legislative Assembly elections.
The extension was ordered by Chief Election Commissioner Justice (Retd. ) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, allowing polling stations across Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber districts to remain open until 6:00 p. m. , instead of the scheduled closing time of 5:00 p. m.
Voting had begun at 8:00 a. m. in all 13 constituencies of Mirpur Division, which is participating in the first phase of the staggered AJK general elections.
Election officials said the additional hour was granted in response to the unusually high turnout of voters, enabling more people waiting at polling stations to cast their ballots before polling concluded.
Mirpur Division comprises 13 constituencies spread across the districts of Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber. Officials said polling continued until 6:00 p. m. under the revised schedule.