The Kashmir Pulse

NEW DELHI — The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday said it is ready to hold assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir and that the Union Territory recorded the highest voter turnout in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in the last four decades.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi to give an overview of marathon 7-phase 2024 general elections that concluded on June 1, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, as per the local news agency KNS, said the commission is ready to hold assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

He said that Jammu and Kashmir recorded the highest voter turnout in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in the last four decades with 58.58 overall per cent, while Kashmir Valley recorded a 51.05 per cent turnout.

He also said that there was no major incident reported during polls anywhere in the country including Jammu and Kashmir.

The 7-phase Lok Sabha polls concluded on June 1, while votes will be counted tomorrow. On June 1, the exit polls predicted a landslide victory for PM Modi-led NDA with the alliance poised to win over 350 seats.

Meanwhile, all arrangements have been put in place with heightened security measures for the counting of votes across the country including Jammu and Kashmir.

For Jammu and Kashmir, most of the exit polls predicted the National Conference's win in all three Lok Sabha seats in the Kashmir Valley, BJP's two-seat wins in the Jammu division and Congress winning the lone Lok Sabha seat in Ladakh.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India on Monday said that the voter turnout in Jammu & Kashmir in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls was the highest in a parliament election in the last 35 years.

The poll body today said that overall voter turnout for the entire Union Territory in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls stood at 58.46 per cent.

“In a massive stride for India’s electoral polity, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed its highest poll participation in the last 35 years. The combined voter turnout (VTR) at the polling stations for the entire Union Territory (5 Lok Sabha seats) was 58.46 % in the General Elections 2024. This significant participation is a testament to the robust democratic spirit and civic engagement of the people in the region,” the ECI said, as per the news agency KNO.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said, “This active participation is a huge positive for assembly elections to be held soon so that the democratic process continues to thrive in the Union Territory.”

“This achievement sits on a credible weave of a 25% increase in the number of contesting candidates since 2019, C-vigil complaints showing enhanced citizen involvement and Suvidha Portal showing 2455 requests for rallies etc., reflecting the steady retaking of the election & campaign space away from hesitation and to fuller participation," he said.

He added, "Compared this outcome of the layered depth of electoral mobilization and participation, as reminiscent of the fame and deft of the legendary Kashmiri artisanal weave. This active participation is a huge positive for assembly elections to be held soon so that the democratic process continues to thrive in the Union Territory.”

The Commission said that the voter turnout of 50.86% from the three parliamentary constituencies in the Kashmir Valley echoes the faith of the people in the democratic process. “The poll participation percentage witnessed 30 points jump from the last GE in 2019 where it was 19.16%,” the poll body said.

The parliamentary segments of Srinagar, Baramulla and Anantnag-Rajouri recorded a voter turnout of 38.49%, 59.1% and 54.84% respectively, which has been the highest in the last three decades.

The other two parliamentary constituencies namely Udhampur and Jammu recorded 68.27% and 72.22% voter turnout, respectively.

PULWAMA — In a significant electoral moment, Kashmir witnessed its first major polls after the abrogation of Article 370, with hopeful residents expressing their aspirations for robust parliamentary representation.

Speaking to The Kashmir Pulse, citizens voiced optimism about electing deserving candidates who would echo their aspirations in the Parliament. Many first-time voters emphasized the importance of having a voice in the Parliament that resonates with their dreams and concerns.

Moreover, there's a palpable desire among Kashmiris for the conduct of assembly elections by the Election Commission of India, enabling the establishment of a local government for addressing grassroots issues.

The Election Commission reported a voter turnout of approximately 36.58% in Srinagar, one of Kashmir's three parliamentary constituencies, by 8 pm on May 13. This turnout is a notable increase compared to previous elections, marking a potential shift in the region's political engagement.

Srinagar, encompassing volatile areas of the city and surrounding districts, has historically struggled with low voter participation. However, Monday's turnout of 36.58% is the highest recorded since 1996, signalling a significant shift in civic participation.

The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 mark a pivotal moment for Kashmir since the BJP-led government's controversial decision to revoke Article 370 in August 2019, altering the region's constitutional status and dividing it into Union Territories.

In this election, the absence of boycott calls is noteworthy, reflecting a renewed sense of political participation among Kashmiris. Srinagar, a bastion of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), has witnessed keen competition among candidates, including Aga Ruhullah of NC, Waheed-ur-Rehman Para of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Mohammad Ashraf Mir of the J&K Apni Party (AP) backed by J&K People’s Conference (PC).

The 2024 general election signals a potential turning point in Kashmir's electoral turf, offering residents an opportunity to shape their political future amidst evolving circumstances. With Baramulla and Anantnag-Rajouri set to vote in subsequent rounds, Kashmir's political journey continues to unfold in the post-Article 370 era.

SRINAGAR — Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday levelled critical allegations on the government, saying “political Ikhwan is being thrusting in Jammu and Kashmir, and 1987-like poll rigging is being repeated”.

Addressing a press conference here in Srinagar, PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, as per the news agency KNS, said that it is surprising that Section 143 has been imposed in district Pulwama ahead of Lok Sabha elections in the segment which is being held on May 13.

“It is unprecedented that Section 143 has been imposed in district Pulwama. For the past few days, our party workers who have participated actively in poll campaigning are being summoned to police stations and subsequently detained. Besides our 60 workers have been arrested in Poonch district after militants ambushed the IAF convoy in Sanai Top," she said.

"We want to ask the Election Commission of India (ECI) if you want to rig elections like rigged in 1987, then what for this whole drama is being created,” Mehbooba Mufti said.

She alleged that the government is trying to revive “Ikhwan” in Jammu and Kashmir to muzzle people’s voices in the region. “They (government) have constituted sooted-booted Ikhwan. They have formed political Ikhwan this time to throttle the voice of hapless people of Jammu and Kashmir,” she said.

The PDP chief, who is herself contesting Lok Sabha elections from the southern Anantnag-Rajouri seat, alleged that PDP workers are selectively being targeted. She appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha that if the government was willing to do this, then what for this election drama was staged?

“Each and every institution of the Government of India is being used to help proxies of BJP in Jammu and Kashmir with an aim to throttle the real voice of J&K,” she alleged.

She said abundant graveyards have come into being after election rigging took place in 1987. She also said that due to the pro-people approach of Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the confidence of Kashmir’s on-vote chit was restored but the situation is being repeated today.

“You have jailed Kashmiri youth like Waheed Para, but we are making them to be ready to reach Parliament. You have stated militancy is over in Jammu and Kashmir, if it is a reality, then what for Section 143 being imposed,” Mehbooba stated.

SRINAGAR — J&K Peoples Conference (PC) President Sajjad Lone on Saturday hit out at Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah during a rally at Beerwah in central Kashmir’s Budgam district.

Lone, according to a statement, emphasised the urgent need for positive change, urging voters to cast their ballots in favour of the "Apple" symbol, representing growth, prosperity, and the collective identity of Kashmiris.

"I assure you that every vote cast in my favour will fill you with pride, contrasting with the regret many feel for supporting Omar Abdullah. His inward-looking approach stands in stark contrast to the aspirations of Kashmiris, who share an unfortunate history of oppression and suffering under NC's rule," he affirmed.

Expressing disappointment in the NC's track record, Lone lamented their consistent “failure” to deliver significant developmental projects for public welfare.

"This level of apathy and shamelessness is astounding. Despite repeated failures to fulfil the public mandate, Omar has the audacity to seek votes. He has lost credibility among the very people he once oppressed so cunningly. His propaganda against me and my party is as feeble as a cobweb, destined to be shattered by the votes of my beloved constituents," he asserted.

Addressing the gathering, DDC Chairman Budgam Nazir Ahmad Khan implored his supporters to wholeheartedly and fervently support the PC, delivering a resounding response to those stained with the blood of innocent Kashmiris.

"Let us stand united and resolute in our support for the PC and Sajad Sahib, sending a clear message to those responsible for the suffering of our people. Together, we will pave the way for dignity and progress in our beloved Kashmir," he said.

Notable leaders, including PC Senior General Secretary Imran Reza Ansari, senior leader Abid Ansari, Provincial President Kashmir Khurshid Alam, Political Secretary Tasaduq Yaseen, Vice President Central Kashmir and Incharge Khansahib Constituency Manzoor Wani, District President Mushtaq Lone, District Vice President Showkat Wani, District Secretary Budgam Ghulam Mohiudin Dar, and Coordinator North Kashmir Hilal Parvez, graced the occasion, symbolizing the unified front of the party, reads the statement.

PC decries EC's notice over song shared by JKPC President

The Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference on Saturday expressed its deep concern and disappointment over the recent notice, served by the Election Commission, “targeting” a song shared by PC President Sajjad Gani Lone on Twitter.

As per the news agency CNS, the JKPC in a statement said, "The video in question is not an official song of the party but rather a creation by Kashmiri youth. It embodies the heartfelt sentiments of the Kashmiri people, vividly portraying the enduring pain and suffering experienced in the region over decades. We firmly believe that sharing such a song, which reflects the painful history of the region, should not be seen as a violation of electoral norms.”

The party further urged the Election Commission to apply the rules uniformly and desist from selective scrutiny. “The fairness and equality are indispensable in preserving the integrity of the electoral process,” the JKPC said, adding, “It is disconcerting to observe a pattern where the Election Commission singles out our party for scrutiny while displaying leniency towards others. We firmly assert that mistakes of the past, such as those in 1987, characterized by biased approaches of the administration, should not be repeated.”

The JKPC further said that a level playing field must be extended to all political entities without prejudice.

“The Election Commission must avoid disparate treatment of political parties. Rules applied to JKPC should be uniformly applied to all political entities, including the NC,” the statement concluded.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Tuesday a significant revision to the election schedule for the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary seat, moving the polling day from May 7 to May 25.

The decision came in response to numerous representations from various political parties in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. These representations cited logistical challenges, communication barriers, and natural connectivity hindrances that were impeding fair campaigning opportunities for contesting candidates in the constituency.

According to an official order from the Election Commission of India, cited by a local news agency, the Commission considered reports from the UT administration and assessed the ground situation prevailing in the constituency before making the decision.

"The Commission, after considering the report from UT administration as well as analyzing the ground situation prevailing in the said constituency, has decided under Section 56 of Representation of People Act, 1951, to revise the date of the poll in the said Parliamentary Constituency in respect of ongoing General Election to Lok Sabha, 2024, for Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary seat from 07 May to 25 May," the order stated.

This move aims to ensure a more equitable electoral process and address the challenges faced by candidates in effectively reaching out to voters in the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary constituency.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday stated that in its crackdown on money power, it has seized cash, liquor, drugs and freebies worth Rs 4 crores in Jammu and Kashmir and that it will continue its drive ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

In a statement issued to the news agency KNO, the ECI said that with General Elections 2024 underway, ECI is on track for the highest-ever seizures of inducements recorded in the 75-year history of Lok Sabha elections in the country.

Higher than total seizures in 2019 polls, the ECI said that the action will continue to be strict and non-stop. "ECI is on track for the highest ever seizures of inducements recorded in the 75-year history of Lok Sabha elections in the country," it said.

It added, “Enforcement agencies have made a record seizure of over Rs. 4650 crores in ECI’s resolute fight against money power even before the first phase of polling for the 18th Lok Sabha elections commences on Friday. This marks a sharp increase over Rs 3475 crores seized during the entire Lok Sabha election in 2019.”

“Significantly, 45% of the seizures are of drugs and narcotics, which are under the special focus of the Commission. The seizures have been possible through comprehensive planning, scaled-up collaboration and unified deterrence action from agencies, proactive citizen participation and optimal engagement of technology," it went on to state.

It further said in the statement, "Use of black money, over and above political financing and accurate disclosure thereof, may disturb the level playing field in favour of more resourceful parties or candidates in specific geographies. The seizures are a critical part of ECI's resolve to conduct the Lok Sabha elections free of inducements and electoral malpractices and to ensure a level playing field."

The ECI states that the Commission during reviews had always emphasized that there will be multi-pronged surveillance on all modes of transport - check posts and Nakas for road transport, coast guard for coastal routes and DMs and SPs alongside agencies for air routes including checking of helicopters and non-scheduled flights.

The ECI stated that in January and February 2024, the months preceding the official announcement, countrywide seizures totalling another Rs 7502 crores were recorded in the form of cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals and freebies. This brings the total seizure to over Rs 12000 crores so far with six weeks still left in the election period, the ECI said.

As per ECI figures, cash worth Rs 1.2466890 crores, liquor worth Rs 0.6300640 crores, drugs worth Rs 2.3529220 crores, precious metal worth 0.0025800 crores, freebies/other items worth Rs 0.0559150 crores have been seized in J&K. “Total seizures in J&K are worth Rs 4.2881700 crores,” the ECI statement said.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India (ECI) has allotted 'Bucket' as the symbol to Ghulam Nabi Azad-led Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Party chief spokesperson, Salman Nizami told the news agency KNO that the ECI has allocated 'Bucket' as the election symbol to the party.

Lok Sabha polls are scheduled to be held next month in seven phases with the first phase commencing on April 19.

JAMMU — In an effort to regulate political campaigning ahead of elections, the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) will now pre-certify all political advertisements across various mediums in Jammu and Kashmir. This decision comes in accordance with a Supreme Court order from April 13, 2004, and guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India.

As per a notification released by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Jammu and Kashmir, all political advertisements by registered political parties, groups of organizations, associations, contesting candidates, or individuals must undergo pre-certification by the MCMC before being telecast or broadcast on television and cable networks, including cable channels.

This pre-certification requirement extends to advertisements displayed in cinema halls, on radio (including private FM channels), audiovisual displays in public places, e-newspapers, bulk SMS/voice messages, social media platforms, and internet websites. Additionally, print media advertisements are subject to pre-certification for one day before the poll day and on the poll day itself.

Stakeholders have been duly notified through this medium to ensure compliance, with only pre-certified political advertisements authorized by the MCMC at the district or UT level committee to be telecast, broadcast, or posted on social media and internet platforms.

Furthermore, on the day before the poll and on the poll day, only pre-certified print advertisements by the MCMC are permitted in newspapers, magazines, display hoardings, banners, pamphlets, etc. Any violation of these regulations will be seriously viewed, and appropriate actions will be initiated against the violators.

Concurrently, the Chief Electoral Officer has issued guidelines for printers and publishers in Jammu and Kashmir regarding the printing and publication of election-related materials. The notice informs all registered printers and publishers in the Union Territory that the printing and publication of election pamphlets, posters, and related materials are governed by Section 127-A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

According to the guidelines, election materials must prominently display the names and addresses of both the printer and the publisher. Printers are required to obtain a declaration from the publisher, signed by them and attested by two known persons, and submit it along with the printed material to the Chief Electoral Officer or the District Magistrate, depending on the location of printing. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in penalties, including imprisonment and fines, as stipulated by law.

Printers are further mandated to furnish four copies of the printed material, along with the publisher's declaration, within three days of printing. Information regarding the number of copies printed and the price charged for the printing job must also be submitted separately for each election-related document.

Any violation of these guidelines or statutory provisions will be met with strict action, including the potential revocation of printing press licenses under relevant state laws.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India on Saturday said that there will be no simultaneous Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections along with the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi to announce the Lok Sabha polls' schedule and four state assemblies, CEC Rajiv Kumar said that only four states will go simultaneously to polls along with Lok Sabha and there will be no assembly polls in J&K.

He said that assembly polls will be held in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh along with the Lok Sabha polls.

"The Lok Sabha polls will begin from April 19 and will be held in 7 phases. He said that the counting of votes will be held on June 4," he said.

He also said that polls to five Lok Sabha constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir will be held in five phases and only one J&K constituency will go to polls in each phase.

The first phase will be held on April 19, the second on April 26, the third on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25 and the seventh on June 1.

SRINAGAR — Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, announced on Saturday that all preparations have been finalized for the upcoming elections in the region, expressing confidence in achieving a record-breaking voter turnout.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Kumar highlighted the readiness for the impending electoral process. According to a local news agency, Kumar stated, "All the preparations for the upcoming elections are in place. The Election Commission of India (ECI) delegation, following its recent visit to Jammu and Kashmir, has also expressed satisfaction with the preparations made."

Kumar reassured the media that the elections would be conducted with transparency and fairness, stating, "Once any directive is received, the elections will be conducted in a free and fair manner."

Responding to queries regarding security arrangements for candidates, Kumar mentioned, "Once the schedule is announced, due security will be provided to the candidates."

With anticipation mounting, Kumar expressed optimism, saying, "We are expecting a record-breaking voter turnout in the upcoming elections."

SRINAGAR — With anticipation mounting, political parties in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are hopeful that the much-awaited Assembly polls could be conducted either independently or simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections later this year.

The last Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir took place in 2014, preceding the reorganization of the erstwhile state into two Union territories on August 5, 2019.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar has emphasized that a decision regarding separate or simultaneous elections would be made after a thorough review of security concerns and feedback.

Despite the complexities involved, Kumar maintained that there was no delay on the part of the Election Commission in facilitating Assembly polls in the UT.

The demand for expedited assembly elections has gained momentum from mainstream parties in Jammu and Kashmir.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar underscored the Commission's awareness of the prevailing "vacuum" in the Union territory, stressing the imperative to address it promptly. He reiterated the Commission's commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities, ensuring timely elections to uphold democratic values.

The news agency KNS reported that a senior BJP leader expressed the party's unwavering readiness for elections, reaffirming their dedication to the democratic process.

Echoing similar sentiments, a representative from the Apni Party emphasized the populace's eagerness for electoral participation, urging the Election Commission to expedite the decision-making process.

The prolonged absence of an elected government has fueled the urgency for timely elections, with political stakeholders advocating for swift action to address the prevailing political vacuum.

Despite reservations expressed by certain National Conference leaders regarding the perceived lack of initiative in conducting overdue assembly elections, the consensus remains firm on the imperative of electoral governance.

Asserting the need for decisive action, stakeholders emphasize the pivotal role of the Election Commission in mitigating the political vacuum and fulfilling the populace's democratic aspirations.

Amid ongoing deliberations, the Election Commission stands as the final authority on the matter, tasked with navigating the complexities and assessing the ground realities in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Jammu and Kashmir administration are pivotal in providing crucial insights into the prevailing situation, facilitating informed decision-making by the Election Commission.

Despite the absence of a formal announcement, political activities continue unabated in the region, with parties mobilizing supporters and advocating for timely elections.

Ravinder Raina, President of the BJP, reiterated the party's commitment to electoral governance, expressing optimism for imminent polls.

The prevailing sentiment among BJP leaders reflects a sense of readiness and confidence in securing a decisive mandate to steer Jammu and Kashmir towards a new era of governance and development.

As political fervour intensifies, stakeholders eagerly await the Election Commission's decision, hopeful for a swift resolution that will pave the way for democratic governance and pave the path for Jammu and Kashmir's inclusive development.

SRINAGAR — Chief Election Commissioner of India Rajiv Kumar on Wednesday said that the Commission will take a final call on holding concurrent Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in J&K after thorough consultations with the security agencies and political parties.

“We are equally concerned about Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in J&K,” Chief Election Commissioner of India, Rajiv Kumar told a press conference in Jammu, as per the news agency KNO.

He said that the Commission wants Lok Sabha and Assembly polls soon. “As far as holding the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls simultaneously, we will hold thorough consultations with the security agencies and also get the feedback from the political parties,” he said in reply to a query whether the Commission intends to hold Lok Sabha and Assembly polls simultaneously.

Replying to a query about security needs, the CEC of India said that they will draw a sketch and see how much is the requirement for Lok Sabha polls and Assembly polls. “We will also see how much will be the security requirement if both elections are held concurrently,” Kumar said.

He said that there are 86.9 lakh voters in J&K including first-time voters and voters above 100 years of age. “We will ensure free and fair polls,” he said.

The CEC of India said that in case of any mischief, violence or fake news, the same should be reported on the cVigil portal. “Action will follow within 100 minutes of the uploading of the complaint,” he said.

About the ECI team's visit to Kashmir and Jammu, Kumar said that they met various political parties in Srinagar and the majority of them demanded concurrent Lok Sabha and Assembly polls. “Some parties complained that security cover of their candidates has been trimmed unnecessarily and they are not given permissions to carry out political activities,” he said.

Kumar said that the issue of less participation of migrant voters in the election process also popped up. “Official teams will visit migrant voters in Jammu and urge them to participate in polls,” he said.

He said that there are 44 lakh male and 42 female voters. “The ratio is almost the same,” he said, adding, “There are 67,000 voters with disabilities, 77,290 voters over the age of 85, and 2,886 centenarians. Notably, over 3.4 lakh individuals are first-time voters, reflecting a vibrant and dynamic electoral landscape.”

The CEC said that victory of the ballot is a festival of democracy and added that for the first time, persons with disabilities will have the facility to vote from home. “A team will visit the house of disabled voters along with the candidate. Same will be videographed,” he said.

It may recalled that the Supreme Court in its judgement has stated that statehood to J&K should be granted and Assembly polls be held before September 2024.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated discussions with political parties in Jammu and Kashmir to assess readiness for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

They engaged with various parties including National Conference, PDP, BJP, CPI(M), Congress, and AAP.

The National Conference emphasized the importance of conducting assembly elections alongside the Lok Sabha polls. PDP also advocated for simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections.

Following these consultations, the Election Commission will review election preparedness with District Election Officers and police officials.

Later, they will meet with Jammu and Kashmir's chief electoral officer and police nodal officers. Similar interactions are scheduled for Jammu on Wednesday.

There's been a growing demand for simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections or immediate assembly polls after the general elections, notably from former chief ministers Farooq Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Secretary has also taken measures to ensure smooth conduct of the Lok Sabha polls.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India (ECI) is visiting Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday and Wednesday to review preparations for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Officials quoted by the news agency KNS said that the full team of the Commission is scheduled to visit J&K tomorrow and the day after, however, some officials may visit the region today itself.

"They will review the preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls during their two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. Besides, poll preparations, the team will also assess the security situation in the Union Territory," they said.

They said that the ECI team will also hold meetings with officials and representatives of political parties during their visit.

"The possibility of holding Assembly elections simultaneously with Lok Sabha polls is also under consideration as top officials of security and intelligence agencies have already held closed-door meetings with the ECI regarding the possibility of holding simultaneous polls," the officials said.

They also said that soon after concluding its J&K visit, the ECI will announce the Lok Sabha poll schedule likely on March 15 during a press conference in New Delhi. Lok Sabha polls are scheduled to be held sometime between April and May this year.

Regarding Assembly polls in J&K, the Supreme Court while upholding the scrapping of Article 370 in December last year also directed the Centre to hold elections in the Union territory by September this year.

SRINAGAR — Chief Electoral Officer Jammu and Kashmir Pandurang Kondbarao Pole on Saturday said that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is likely to notify the schedule for Lok Sabha polls in the next 20 days.

Speaking with reporters during his visit to south Kashmir to assess preparedness for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, PK Pole, as per the news agency KNO, said that the Election Commission is expected to issue a formal notification regarding the poll dates in the next 15 to 20 days.

He assured that the administration's foremost priority remains to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections, ensuring that voters can exercise their franchise without any fear or difficulty.

During his review, Pole conducted meetings with officials from three South Kashmir districts - Anantnag, Shopian, and Pulwama. He also engaged with the Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) from these districts.

Pole acknowledged the challenges inherent in conducting elections but expressed confidence in the capabilities of the administrative officers to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

Moreover, the CEO underscored the significant improvement in the security scenario across Kashmir in recent years. He reiterated that any additional deployment of security forces would be carried out in strict adherence to the norms set forth by the Election Commission of India.

SRINAGAR — The Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone on Tuesday ordered the cancellation of all transfers ordered on February 25 following instructions from the Election Commission of India (ECI) in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

In an order, IGP Kashmir VK Birdhi stated that in pursuance to the instructions/clarification issued by the Election Commission of India, the transfer effected vide ZPHQ order No. 756 of 2024 dated 25.02.2024 is hereby cancelled ab-initio.

The order states that, however, instruction of the Election Commission, which continues to apply to J&K stands adhered to in letter and spirit.

Earlier, the Election Commission had stated that all the DEOs, Dy. DEOs, RO, AROs, and Range ADGs, lGs, DlGs, SSPs, SPs, Addl. SPs, Dy. SPs, Circle Officers (or equivalent rank police officers) shall be posted out if they have completed three years during the last four years in the same Parliamentary Constituency or districts.

“Thus, the Commission's instructions dated 23.02.2024 would be applicable only to the above officers. Moreover, it shall be ensured that ROs and AROs are not posted in the Parliamentary Constituency which is comprised of their Home District,” it said.

The poll body said that the States/UTs with up to five Parliamentary Constituencies shall be exempted from the instructions dated 23.O2.2024.

It said that the compliance report from the Chief Secretary and DGP of the concerned states may be sent immediately.

SRINAGAR — In a significant move aimed at upholding fairness and transparency in electoral processes, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a resolute directive to state governments and Union Territories, emphasizing the imperative implementation of transfer policies both in essence and execution.

The directive, outlined in an official notification released on Saturday, emphasizes a crucial stipulation: 'officers completing three-year tenure in a district must not be reassigned to another district within the same Parliamentary Constituency'.

This latest decree seeks to address a prevalent issue wherein officers, upon completion of their tenure, are frequently shuffled to adjacent districts within the same Parliamentary Constituency by state authorities.

To counteract such circumvention of the spirit of the transfer policy, the Commission has mandated strict adherence to its provisions, retroactively applying them to previously executed transfers and postings.

Exceptions to this mandate are granted only to states and Union Territories encompassing up to two Parliamentary Constituencies. However, for larger constituencies, the directive remains unequivocal: no officer completing their tenure shall be stationed within the same electoral boundary.

Underpinning this directive is the ECI's steadfast commitment to maintaining a level playing field in electoral proceedings.

Notably, the policy extends to all officers tangentially involved in election-related duties, whether in a direct capacity or supervisory role. By enforcing this regulation, the Commission aims to curb any potential biases or undue influences that may arise from prolonged officer tenures in specific districts.

The Commission reiterates its unwavering stance on ensuring electoral integrity, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach toward any actions that might compromise the fairness of the electoral landscape.

SRINAGAR — As the country gears up for the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April-May 2024, preparations are in full swing in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, including the Union Territory of Ladakh.

With Jammu and Kashmir having five Lok Sabha seats and Ladakh having one, the electoral landscape is poised for significant political activity.

In the preceding 2019 General Election, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) clinched victory in two seats, whereas the National Conference emerged triumphant in three. However, the Congress party did not secure any seats, whereas the BJP emerged victorious in the Lok Sabha elections in Ladakh.

This year's election marks the first Lok Sabha polls in Jammu and Kashmir after the Central government's decision to abrogate Article 370.

Traditionally, elections in Jammu and Kashmir are conducted in multiple phases. In 2019, the process spanned five phases. The upcoming election is anticipated to follow a similar pattern, with the Election Commission of India expected to announce the election schedule in the coming weeks.

To ensure the smooth conduct of elections and assess the security situation, the reports said that the full Election Commission of India is set to chair two high-level security review meetings in Jammu and Kashmir.

These meetings will involve interactions with political parties, stakeholders, as well as administrative and law enforcement authorities. During their visit, the Commission plans to hold comprehensive meetings with all 20 Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police. Additionally, separate meetings are scheduled with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and Director General of Police R R Swain.

These discussions aim to strategize security measures and evaluate the feasibility of conducting assembly polls alongside the Lok Sabha elections. The Election Commission is committed to ensuring foolproof security arrangements to facilitate violence-free and transparent elections. With the shadow of cross-border militant activities looming, stringent measures are imperative to uphold the democratic process.

In light of security concerns, the Election Commission has approved the deployment of 635 paramilitary companies in Jammu and Kashmir. This significant presence underscores the commitment to maintaining law and order and safeguarding the electoral process.

Furthermore, the Commission will engage with senior leaders of major national and regional political parties, as well as other stakeholders, to solicit their input and address any concerns. Their participation is crucial in fostering an environment conducive to free and fair elections.

As the nation awaits the announcement of the election schedule, all eyes are on Jammu and Kashmir as it braces for an electoral exercise amid heightened security measures and evolving political dynamics, especially after the abrogation of Article 370.

Meanwhile, the Union Territory Government of Jammu and Kashmir and the Ladakh administration have commenced preparations to ensure the smooth conduct of polls with utmost security. With five Lok Sabha seats at stake in the Jammu and Kashmir region, comprehensive measures will be put in place to safeguard the electoral process and maintain law and order.

The government is committed to providing full security coverage to polling booths, election personnel, and voters to facilitate a seamless voting experience.

Under the guidance of the Election Commission of India, the UT administration will coordinate with law enforcement agencies to bolster security arrangements across the region. Focus areas include the deployment of security personnel, surveillance mechanisms, and preemptive measures to counter any potential threats.

With the support of the local administration and law enforcement agencies, the Ladakh UT Government aims to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure a peaceful environment conducive to democratic participation.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India (ECI) is likely to visit the Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory on March 12 and 13, sources disclosed.

Sources told the news agency KNO that the EC comprising the Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners would visit J&K, likely on March 12 and 13, to review preparedness for Lok Sabha polls to be held in April and May.

During its visit to J&K, the poll panel is expected to meet different stakeholders including political parties and officials from civil administration and police.

The poll panel could also assess the feasibility of holding Assembly polls in J&K in view of the deadline set up by the Supreme Court.

On December 11, 2023, the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission of India to hold J&K Assembly polls by September 30, 2024.

Jammu & Kashmir has been without any elected government since June 19, 2018, when BJP withdrew support to Mehbooba Mufti-led government, citing deteriorating security situation in the erstwhile state.

It is worthwhile to mention that the Election Commission of India has approved 635 companies of paramilitary forces in Jammu and Kashmir and 57 in Ladakh for conduct of polls for six Lok Sabha seats in the two Union Territories carved out of the erstwhile state of J&K.