Muzaffarabad: Removal of Names from Voter Lists Concerning, Transparent Elections Must Be Ensured, Says Aslam Nadar Salhari

Muzaffarabad: Pakistan Peoples Party candidate for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly constituency LA-35 Jammu-II, Aslam Nadar Salhari, has termed the removal of names from voter lists as a serious and alarming issue, warning that it not only undermines the fundamental democratic rights of affected individuals but also raises concerns about the transparency of the electoral process.
Speaking to refugees from Jammu and Kashmir during visits to various villages, Salhari said a large number of people had expressed grave concerns over the absence of their names from voter lists, leading to widespread anxiety among the public. He emphasized that depriving refugees of their right to vote is unacceptable under any circumstances and called for strict action against those responsible.
He stated that he is personally monitoring the entire process and bringing the matter to the attention of relevant authorities to ensure that all eligible voters are duly registered. He welcomed the Azad Kashmir Chief Election Commissioner’s assurance to restore names of previously registered voters and extend the deadline for new voter registrations, calling it a positive and encouraging step that would provide relief to affected individuals and help restore public confidence in the electoral process.
Salhari stressed the need for strict implementation of these decisions and warned against any negligence at any level. He reiterated that the Pakistan Peoples Party has always upheld democratic values and would fully cooperate with the Election Commission to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.
He also alleged that certain former candidates were involved in the removal of voters’ names, calling such actions detrimental to the credibility of the electoral process. He urged political parties to rise above personal interests and focus on resolving public issues instead of making the electoral process controversial.
He further appealed to refugees to actively participate in the voter registration and verification process and to immediately approach relevant authorities in case of any discrepancies. He reaffirmed that the Pakistan Peoples Party would continue to raise its voice at every forum for the protection of refugees’ rights.
He concluded by stating that the conduct of free, fair, and impartial elections in Azad Kashmir is the need of the hour to ensure the emergence of true public representatives and effective resolution of public issues.