AJK officials urge responsible reporting as first phase of polls begins in Mirpur Division

ISLAMABAD: Ahead of the first phase of Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s general elections on July 27, the AJK Information Department has asked journalists and media organisations to exercise caution and ensure that election-related coverage remains verified, balanced and responsible, particularly during polling, vote counting and the announcement of results.

In a joint message issued before the vote, Information Secretary Muhammad Rashid Hanif, Director General Tariq Jamil Durrani and Mirpur Division Deputy Director Raja Muhammad Sohail Khan said professional, impartial and ethical journalism would be critical to preserving the credibility and transparency of the electoral process. The message was conveyed through Bhimber District Information Officer Adnan Mukhtar.

The officials urged members of the print, electronic and digital media to comply with the code of conduct issued by the AJK Election Commission and to observe established journalistic standards throughout the election process. They also warned against the publication or broadcast of unverified reports, rumours, inflammatory material and misleading information, saying inaccurate reporting could disrupt the peaceful conduct of the polls and weaken public trust in the democratic process.

They placed special emphasis on the use of social media platforms, including Facebook, X, WhatsApp, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, saying such channels should be used only to circulate authenticated information. Journalists were also asked to avoid sharing content that could trigger unrest, confuse voters or affect law and order, especially during vote counting and the release of unofficial and official results.

Information department promises coordination

The Information Department said it would remain in close contact with media organisations during the election period and would provide timely, accurate and authenticated official information to support responsible reporting and counter misinformation.

Describing the media as a vital pillar of democracy, the officials said responsible journalism was essential to keeping the elections free, fair, transparent and peaceful. They also expressed confidence that journalists in Bhimber and across the wider Mirpur Division would fulfil their professional and national duties by promoting tolerance, harmony and factual reporting while avoiding sensationalism.

Public holiday announced for polling day

Separately, the AJK government has declared July 27 a public holiday across Mirpur Division to facilitate voter participation in the opening phase of the 2026 AJK general elections. According to the announcement, the holiday is intended to allow voters to cast their ballots without difficulty and to encourage broader public participation in the democratic process.

Polling in the first phase will take place across Mirpur Division, while the remaining phases of the elections are scheduled in Muzaffarabad and Poonch divisions under the revised election schedule announced by the Election Commission.