The role of women voters has become increasingly significant in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly Elections 2026, as the narrow gap between male and female voters in several constituencies could directly influence the outcome of the polls. According to official statistics, Gilgit-Baltistan has a total of 454,480 registered female voters. In at least five constituencies, women voters are expected to play a decisive role in determining victory or defeat. 

Diamer-1 is considered the most unique constituency, where the number of male and female voters is almost identical. The constituency has 22,269 male voters and 22,257 female voters, a difference of just 12 votes. In contrast, the largest gap between male and female voters has been recorded in Gilgit-2, where male voters outnumber female voters by 3,829.

The constituency has 26,010 registered female voters. Election experts identify Gilgit-2, Hunza, Ghizer-2, Gilgit-3, and Skardu-2 as key constituencies where women voters could have a decisive impact on the election results. The number of female voters in these constituencies stands at 25,588 in Hunza, 24,945 in Ghizer-2, 24,810 in Gilgit-3, and 24,346 in Skardu-2. 

Meanwhile, women’s political participation is also gaining prominence, with eight female candidates contesting elections from various constituencies. Their presence reflects the growing representation and involvement of women in Gilgit-Baltistan’s electoral process.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)