Authorities have imposed Section 144 in Diamer district for 60 days as preparations for the 2026 Gilgit-Baltistan General Assembly elections enter the final phase, with thousands of officials deployed to oversee polling across the region.
Election Staff Deployment and Budget
According to the election administration, around 7,500 officers and staff members have been assigned duties in all 24 constituencies of Gilgit-Baltistan to ensure the smooth conduct of the electoral process. The authorities have also approved honoraria for election personnel, allocating a total of Rs276 million for officials engaged in polling duties. The amount includes payments for returning officers, assistant returning officers, presiding officers, assistant presiding officers, and polling staff.
Breakdown of Funds
Officials confirmed that Rs1.8 million has been earmarked for 24 returning officers, while assistant returning officers will receive a combined Rs1.2 million. Similarly, Rs16.416 million has been allocated for 1,368 presiding officers, Rs24.5 million for 2,450 assistant presiding officers, and Rs24 million for 2,450 polling officers. In addition, Rs208 million has been reserved for lower-grade employees, including LDCs, UDCs, and other support staff participating in election-related duties.
Section 144 Enforcement
Meanwhile, the Diamer district administration has enforced Section 144 to maintain law and order during the election period. A notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner prohibits the display of weapons, aerial firing, and the use of fireworks across the district. The order also bans the unauthorised use of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles, with prior approval from the District Magistrate made mandatory for any drone operations.
Security Measures
Authorities said special measures had been taken to safeguard sensitive installations, while law enforcement agencies would remain exempt from the restrictions. The administration said the directives came into force on June 5 and warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found violating the orders. Citizens have been urged to cooperate with the authorities to help ensure a peaceful and secure environment during the elections.
