The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has sought the deployment of the Pakistan Army outside the polling stations in 12 constituencies across the country to prevent any untoward incident during the upcoming by-elections.

The by-elections in nine national and three provincial assembly constituencies would be held on October 16, 2022. 

The constituencies include NA-157, Multan IV, NA-22, Mardan III, NA-24, Charsadda II, NA- 31, Peshawar V, NA-45, Kurram I, NA-108, Faisalabad VIII, NA-118, Nankana Sahib II, NA-237, Malir II, NA-239, Korangi, Karachi, PP-139, Sheikhupura, PP- 241 Bahawalnagar V, and PP-209, Khanewal VII.

 The ECP has written a letter to the Secretary of Interior and Defense requesting the authorities to deploy static contingents of the Pak Army, Rangers, FC, and Quick Response Force outside the polling stations of the 12 constituencies as the present political atmosphere of the country is politically-charged.

Earlier, it was agreed to deploy Rangers, but according to recent reports, the threat of unrest and violence has increased, said the letter written by the ECP. 

The ECP also sought to enhance the deployment of Quick Response Force (QRF) and frequent flag marches to cope with any eventuality. 

The letter further requested that law enforcement agencies should be instructed to remain vigilant and prevent incidents of violence before or during elections in all constituencies. The letter warns if premature violence was not prevented, the situation could spiral out of control.

Reporter: Usman Khan