PTI alleges pre-poll rigging over security deployment ahead of GB polls

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Saturday alleged large-scale pre-poll rigging ahead of the Gilgit-Baltistan elections scheduled for June 7, criticising the deployment of more than 13,000 security personnel from outside the region in addition to 5,600 local police officers.

PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram claimed the deployment of personnel from Punjab Police, Sindh Police, Frontier Constabulary and Islamabad Police far exceeded security requirements for the region’s population and was aimed at influencing the electoral process.

He alleged the move was intended to facilitate manipulation at polling stations and intimidate voters.

The party also accused authorities of systematic pre-election interference, alleging disruptions to internet and landline services, arrests of PTI workers and restrictions on political activities. PTI claimed these measures were designed to weaken support for its candidates before polling day.

Akram further alleged that PTI lawmakers had been pressured to leave the party, loyal workers had been forced into exile and the party’s election symbol had been barred. He also claimed a proposed alliance with the Gilgit-Baltistan Democratic Party was undermined after its election symbol was withdrawn without proper justification.

The PTI alleged manipulation of polling schemes, obstacles to postal voting for its supporters and unequal treatment by election authorities. It also claimed government officials were pressuring voters to support rival parties, while warning that candidates faced threats of disqualification if they challenged the process.

Separately, PTI criticised the Azad Jammu and Kashmir government's decision to declare the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a proscribed organisation. The party argued that political and constitutional grievances should be addressed through dialogue and democratic engagement rather than bans and coercive measures.