Pakistan, Aug. 17 -- The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission has announced the schedule for elections to eight reserved seats, formally starting the fourth phase of the electoral process.

The seats include five for women, while one each is reserved for ulema and religious scholars, overseas AJK residents, and technocrats and other experts. Candidates will submit nomination papers on August 20, with scrutiny and publication of the candidates' list scheduled for the same day.

Candidates can challenge nominations through appeals on August 21, while authorities will hear and decide those appeals on August 22. Candidates can withdraw nominations on August 23, after which officials will publish the final candidate list.

Polling will t...