GB’s govt to rely on police, paramilitary forces to ensure security, transient election

The caretaker government of Gilgit-Baltistan has opted not to call the military for the upcoming election as they will be relying on police and paramilitary forces for security during the polls scheduled to take place on November 15.

Taking to media the caretaker Chief Minister Mir Afzal cleared that initially only paramilitary forces and police would be involved in the election.

He said that the police and paramilitary forces will prove that they are fully capable of holding elections, however, the deployment of troops in sensitive areas can be carried out according to the circumstances.

As many as 554 candidates from 24 constituencies have submitted nomination papers for general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan. The last date for submitting nomination papers was September 30.

According to GB election commission, there are 86 candidates for three seats in Gilgit district, 63 candidates for two seats in Nagar, 31 for one seat in Hunza, 67 for four seats in Skardu, 11 for one seat in Kharmang, five for one seat in Shigar, 66 for two seats in Astore, 67 for four seats in Diamer, 84 for three seats in Ghizer and 47 for three seats in Ghanche.

Political activities have increased in the region after announcement of general elections. Many members of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have decided to contest the elections as independent candidates after the failed to get tickets of the party. Observers expect tough contest between PTI and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in the polls.