291bet Second phase of regional polls kicks off in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Voters across 26 constituencies in the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir are heading to the polls in the second phase of the regional election on Wednesday (Sep 25).

Political observers said this election is possibly seeing the most enthusiastic voter participation in the region’s recent history.

This is reflected not only in high voter turnout in the first phase of the polls, but also in the number of people taking part in rallies.

It is partly driven by voters not being pressured by militants or separatists to boycott polls, which had been the case in the past.

Residents are also using their ballots to protest economic woes, skyrocketing inflation, and the loss of autonomy.

The election is Jammu and Kashmir’s first in a decade, as well as first since the region lost its statehood five years ago.

DEMAND TO RESTORE STATEHOOD

When Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s semi-autonomous status in 2019, it said doing so would boost economic growth in the region.

The government also said scrapping Article 370 – which gave the region a certain amount of privilege including its own constitution and freedom to make laws – would curb separatism and militancy.

While some agree the move has strengthened security somewhat291bet, analysts argue skirmishes between the Indian army and militants continue in parts that were previously peaceful.

Indian paramilitary soldiers guard as polling officials carry electronic voting machines and other election material to a venue for distribution ahead of the second phase of voting for choosing a local government in Indian-controlled Kashmir, in Srinagar, Tuesday, Sept. 24 , 2024. (AP Photo/Mukhtar Khan)

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