Srinagar | Syed Amin Musvi | WTNS | Aug 18:In a landmark decision that will shape the future of Jammu and Kashmir, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the dates for the much-anticipated Assembly elections. After a decade-long wait and significant political transformations, Jammu and Kashmir is finally poised to hold its Assembly elections across three crucial phases: September 18, September 25, and October 1, 2024.

A Decade-Long Wait Ends

This election is particularly significant as it marks the first Assembly elections since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which led to the bifurcation of the former state into two Union Territories—Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The last Assembly elections were held in 2014, making this a critical moment for the region’s political landscape and a test of its democratic resilience.

Given the unique challenges posed by the region’s geography and security situation, the ECI has made unprecedented arrangements to ensure that every eligible voter can participate in the democratic process. In a move that underscores this commitment, the Commission will set up three floating polling stations on the iconic Dal Lake and another along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Gurez Assembly constituency, which serves a 100% Scheduled Tribe (ST) population.

These steps are part of a broader strategy to guarantee that “no voter is left behind,” even in the most remote and sensitive areas. The Koragbal polling station, situated along the LoC, has been recognized for its impressive voter turnout of over 80% during previous elections, despite the logistical and security challenges.

The announcement has sparked reactions from across the political spectrum. Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the decision, stating that the elections will “further strengthen the roots of democracy” in Jammu and Kashmir and pave the way for a new era of development in the region. Meanwhile, the Congress has emphasized that the restoration of full statehood will be a central issue in their campaign, criticizing the BJP-led Centre for what they see as an “insensitive” approach to the region’s autonomy.

National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah welcomed the announcement with cautious optimism, stating, “It is better late than never.” The NC, along with other regional parties, has long advocated for the restoration of statehood and early elections.

These elections come at a time when Jammu and Kashmir’s political environment is more charged than ever. The region has been under central rule since the dissolution of the coalition government in 2018, followed by the revocation of its special status. The upcoming elections will not only determine the next state government but will also reflect the public’s stance on the significant changes imposed over the last few years.

As the political parties gear up for the campaign, the Election Commission will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure a fair and transparent election process. The eyes of the nation, and indeed the world, will be on Jammu and Kashmir as it embarks on this historic electoral journey.

Stay tuned as we bring you continuous, in-depth coverage of the developments leading up to the elections, analysis of the political landscape, and live updates from the ground. This is more than just an election; it is a referendum on the future of Jammu and Kashmir.