The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — In a noteworthy decision, the National Conference (NC) under the leadership of Dr Farooq Abdullah has declared Mian Altaf Ahmad as its candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha constituency, covering Anantnag, Kulgam, Rajouri and other areas.

This declaration marks the initiation of the electoral battle in the region, with Mian Altaf Ahmad becoming the first official candidate named by any political party for this pivotal constituency.

Omar Abdullah, the Vice President of the National Conference (NC), asserted that Mian Altaf is the ideal candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency, emphasizing his commitment to a campaign devoid of religious or other divisive lines.

Abdullah highlighted Mian Altaf's extensive popularity across various societal segments, expressing confidence in his ability to garner substantial support from the electorate.

The announcement took place in the presence of several key party figures including Party General Secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar, State Secretary Chowdhary Ramzan, Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani, and Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq.

Mian Altaf Ahmad, a stalwart Gujjar leader and former Minister, brings with him a legacy deeply rooted in Kashmiri politics.

Hailing from the influential Mian family, Ahmad has served as a Minister and Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Kangan, Kashmir, since 1987, initially contesting under the banner of the Indian National Congress (INC) before joining the NC.

The political lineage of the Mian family traces back to Mian Nizamuddin, followed by his son Mian Bashir Ahmad, both of whom held vital positions as MLAs and Ministers.

The family's stronghold over Kangan is evident from their consecutive victories in nine Assembly elections since 1962. Mian Nizamuddin secured the seat in 1962, succeeded by his son Mian Bashir Ahmad, who won three subsequent elections. Mian Altaf Ahmad continued this legacy by triumphing in the Assembly elections of 1987, 1996, 2002, 2008, and 2014 from the same constituency.

The NC's decision to nominate Mian Altaf Ahmad for the Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary seat reflects a unified stance within the party.

A spokesperson for the NC expressed confidence in Ahmad's candidacy, emphasizing the party's anticipation of a significant voter turnout and a resounding mandate. The spokesperson further underscored the importance of reclaiming Jammu and Kashmir's identity, “urging voters to thwart any attempts aimed at undermining the region's integrity.”

The Mian family's widespread influence extends beyond Kangan, resonating strongly in Jammu's Rajouri and Poonch districts, now integral parts of the south Kashmir Lok Sabha constituency. Their enduring political legacy and grassroots support position Mian Altaf Ahmad as a formidable contender in the upcoming elections, poised to navigate the complex socio-political landscape of south Kashmir.

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.

SRINAGAR — Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency, Dr Jitendra Singh, on Thursday filed his nomination papers.

The nomination ceremony, held at the District Deputy Commissioner's office in Kathua, witnessed the presence of prominent BJP leaders, including the State President, Ravinder Raina, and the renowned wrestler, “The Great Khali" alias Dalip Singh.

Dr Jitendra Singh, contesting for the third time from the Udhampur seat, received overwhelming support from party members and supporters as he embarked on a roadshow through Kalibari, Kathua, leading up to the nomination venue. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as BJP enthusiasts danced to the rhythmic beats of drums.

As per the news agency KNO, after completing the formalities of filing his nomination, Dr Jitendra Singh proceeded to address a spirited rally at Ramlila Maidan in Kathua city.

Dr Singh, who previously served as the Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, has previously secured victory in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the same constituency. Prior to filing his nomination, Dr Singh commenced the day with a morning puja, seeking divine blessings for a successful campaign ahead.

As the deadline for nominations approaches on March 27, political fervour intensifies in the region. The scrutiny of nomination papers is slated for March 28, followed by the withdrawal of candidature by March 30. The Lok Sabha elections for the Udhampur seat are scheduled for April 19.

Meanwhile, in a significant development, former BJP-PDP government minister Chaudhary Lal Singh, a two-time MP, has returned to the Congress fold after nearly a decade. Lal Singh has expressed his intent to contest from the Udhampur seat.

KATHUA — Dr Rakesh Minhas, the Returning Officer for Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency, announced the issuance of an election notification on Wednesday for the upcoming Parliamentary elections in the region.

Scheduled to occur during the initial phase of the electoral process, the elections in this constituency hold significant importance. The election notification delineates the timeline and procedures for potential candidates vying to contest in the parliamentary elections.

According to the notification, nomination papers can be submitted by candidates or their proposers at the Returning Officer’s office or Assistant Returning Officer 67-Kathua AC (ACR Kathua) at Deputy Commissioner’s office, Kathua, between 11:00 am to 03:00 pm on any day (excluding public holidays) not later than March 27, 2024.

Nomination forms are available at the office of the Returning Officer situated in the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Kathua.

Scrutiny of the nomination papers is slated for March 28, 2024 at 01:00 pm at Deputy Commissioner’s Office Kathua. Candidates hold the option to retract their candidature until March 30, 2024, until 03:00 pm.

The polling day for the constituency is marked for April 19, 2024, with polling set to transpire from 07:00 am to 06:00 pm.

Subsequently, during a Press Conference convened on the matter, Dr Minhas informed that no nomination process will occur on March 23rd, 24th, and 25th, 2024, owing to public holidays on these dates under the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881.

Dr. Minhas emphasized the imperative for all eligible candidates and stakeholders to adhere meticulously to the election schedule and procedures as delineated in the election notification. He further urged for active participation and cooperation from all concerned parties to ensure the conduction of a fair and transparent election.

SRINAGAR — With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections inching closer, Jammu and Kashmir's political arena is poised for significant transformations following the abrogation of Article 370, setting the stage for a riveting electoral contest.

Over the past five years, the region has witnessed a notable shift in political dynamics, with emerging contenders affiliated with non-traditional political entities challenging established family-based parties. Three newly registered parties have surfaced, signalling a departure from conventional politics, while numerous leaders, former ministers, and ex-MLAs are expected to play pivotal roles in the evolving political landscape.

The initial political upheaval post-Article 370 revocation saw senior leaders distancing themselves from established parties. Notably, former minister Syed Altaf Bukhari, once aligned with the People's Democratic Party (PDP), founded the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party. The party's commendable performance in the inaugural District Development Council (DDC) elections challenged the dominance of its parent party.

Similarly, influential leader Ghulam Nabi Azad's formation of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) stirred commotion within the Congress, leading to defections of former ministers and MLAs. DPAP is actively exploring electoral prospects across various constituencies, including Jammu, Udhampur, and Anantnag-Rajouri, while the Apni Party is considering alliance possibilities in Kashmir.

The National Conference (NC) faced setbacks in the Jammu division, with key figures defecting to the BJP in 2022, followed by more recent defections after the hills were granted Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservation status.

Furthermore, several notable figures, including Imran Raza Ansari, Basharat Bukhari, and former Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Baig, have severed ties with the PDP, causing friction within the party.

As the electoral landscape continues to evolve, alliances and defections are reshaping political equations, with NC stating its reluctance to engage in seat-sharing agreements with the PDP.

Amidst these developments, the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir are anticipated to be a litmus test for the altered political landscape, setting the stage for a captivating electoral battle.

SRINAGAR — With the Lok Sabha elections scheduled from April 19 to June 1, 2024, district administrations in Kashmir are taking proactive measures to ensure a smooth electoral process. Bandipora and Rajouri districts have issued directives concerning the deposit of weapons and the use of official vehicles during the election period.

In Bandipora, the District Administration has mandated that all civilians and serving or retired forces personnel possessing arms and ammunition on valid licenses must deposit them at the respective police stations within seven days. The move aims to enhance security and prevent potential misuse of weapons during the electoral process.

Additionally, printing presses in the district are required to clearly indicate the names and addresses of the printer and publisher on all election-related material, as directed by District Election Officer Shakeel-ul-Rehman.

Meanwhile, Rajouri District Magistrate Om Parkash Bhagat has issued a similar directive, urging civilians with licensed weapons to deposit them at the nearest police station within a week. This measure is aligned with efforts to maintain law and order and ensure transparent elections.

Additionally, printing presses in Rajouri have been instructed to comply with guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India, ensuring transparency in election-related communications.

Furthermore, in Bandipora, the District Magistrate has imposed a total ban on the use of official vehicles by political parties, candidates, or any individuals associated with election campaigns. This prohibition, effective immediately, aims to prevent the misuse of government resources for electoral purposes and promote fairness in the electoral process.

Authorities in both districts have emphasized strict adherence to these directives to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. Senior officials have been tasked with overseeing the implementation of these measures to ensure compliance.

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 — 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.

PULWAMA — Jammu and Kashmir’s Director General of Police (DGP) RR Swain on Monday said that police are fully prepared to ensure peaceful Lok Sabha elections whenever they are announced and the force will provide a safe and secure atmosphere to enthusiastic voters.

Talking to reporters after inaugurating the police post at Rohmoo in the southern district of Pulwama, the DGP, as per the news agency KNO, said that the police force is fully prepared and geared up for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in J&K.

“We will ensure peaceful Lok Sabha polls in J&K. We will provide a safe and secure atmosphere to enthusiastic voters,” the DGP said, in reply to a query.

Replying to another query about links between 'narco-terror' and 'terrorism', the DGP said that earlier, they had a doubt whether these two were really linked. “As and when investigations progressed, concrete evidence came to the fore that narco-trade and terrorism are deeply not only linked but interconnected. Terrorist outfits like Al-Badr, Jaish-e-Muhammad, Lashkar-e-Toiba are behind this trade,” he said.

The J&K Police chief said that the value of Rs 15 lakh consignment of narcotics reaches up to Rs 1 crore while travelling from Kashmir to Delhi and other parts of the country.

“We have a robust mechanism to curb and crack this trade. It is not so easy but we are doing and the police force is capable to do it,” he said.

PULWAMA — Dr Basharat Qayoom, the Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama and District Election Officer, conducted a thorough inspection of various polling stations in the Pampore Assembly Constituency today to assess Assured Minimum Facilities and review the administration's preparedness for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The polling stations visited during the inspection included locations in Kakapora, ITI Women Pampore, GBHSS Ladoo, Shar Shali, BHSS Khrew, GBPS Wuyan, GBHS Wuyan, GBMS Meej GMS Kadlabal, and GUPS Litterbal.

The primary objective of the inspection was to ensure accessibility for all voters, particularly those with disabilities. The DC scrutinized ramp access, wheelchair facilities, and other amenities available at each polling station.

Accompanied by SSP Awantipora, ADDC Pulwama, and ADC Awantipora, Dr Qayoom assessed the facilities, security arrangements, and accessibility features at the inspected polling stations.

He urged the concerned departments to ensure the provision of all necessary facilities at the polling stations to facilitate the participation of every eligible voter in the electoral process seamlessly.

During interactions with the staff, the DC reviewed the preparedness levels and adherence to electoral guidelines, emphasizing the significance of impartiality and transparency throughout the electoral proceedings.

Dr Qayoom reiterated the administration's commitment to conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections, calling upon all stakeholders to cooperate and contribute to the success of the electoral process.

Subsequently, the DC visited the strong room at Polytechnic College, IUST Awantipora, to oversee the handling of election material for the Tral assembly segment. At the strong room, he reviewed the storage infrastructure, security measures, and inventory management systems in place to handle election material effectively.

SRINAGAR — The National Conference (NC) on Tuesday said that the party will contest all three Lok Sabha seats of the Kashmir division while Congress stated that the talks are still on and the final decision will be made public on March 7.

Talking to the news agency KNO, a day after the NC Vice President Omar Abdullah and People's Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Mehbooba Mufti attended the INDIA bloc meeting in New Delhi, the NC leaders back in Kashmir said that there will be no compromise on any seat in the Valley.

“The talks are going on with Congress, but we (NC) will contest from all the seats in Kashmir,” Nasir Aslam Wani, the party’s Provincial President said. He added that the decision has been made by the party and there will be no discussion over it.

However, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President, Vikar Rasool when contacted, said that there is no decision with regard to the seat-sharing yet. “NC might have made public its stand and claim on three seats in Kashmir division, but the fact is that any decision with regard to the alliance and seat sharing will be made public on March 7 only,” he said.

PDP Spokesman, Najam-us-Saqib said that NC is adamant about contesting on all three seats. “We firmly believe that it is an existential fight and there is no need to look into the interests and fight for a larger cause. The decision is still pending and a final outcome will be out on March 7,” he said.

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 — Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference (PC) on Monday declared its president Sajad Gani Lone as the Lok Sabha candidate from North Kashmir.

In a statement, issued to the news agency KNO, the party's General Secretary Imran Raza Ansari said that the decision has been taken after extensive discussions with party leaders and workers over the past two weeks.

"It is with great pleasure that I formally announce that Sajad Lone has acceded to the demand of the party. He will be the candidate of the party from Baramulla Parliamentary seat," he said.

He stated that the party leadership wishes him the best and believes that the fiercest speeches on the floor of the Parliament, advocating the just cause of the people will finally be delivered by Sajad Lone after a painful wait of seven decades. "The people of J&K will finally get the chance to roar," he said.

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 Chief Electoral Officer, Jammu and Kashmir, Pandurang K Pole on Saturday said that the media plays the role of watchdog for fair and transparent elections.

Pole during a training programme organized here for the media persons today highlighted the need for a check on fake news and the role of media in ensuring a civil discourse both during and after the election processes.

In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024, a one-day workshop for media personnel was organised at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Darul-Intikhab here. The program was attended by representatives of major news outlets of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

The participants were briefed about all the important aspects of media during the election process including the spread of information, disinformation, fake news, media certification and monitoring committees.

The representatives were also apprised of the code of ethics for social media operations and regulations regarding poll day coverage.

Chief Electoral Officer, Jammu and Kashmir, Pandurang K Pole inaugurated the session and stressed the crucial role of media as a watchdog for fair and transparent elections.

National-level master trainers Chand Kishore Sharma and Riaz Ahmed Butt imparted training on several topics including media centres, restrictions of exit and opinion polls, enforcement of MCC and other regulations.

Chief Electoral Officer J&K in his closing address apprised the participants of various election-related aspects highlighting the need for a check on fake news and the role of media in ensuring a civil discourse both during and after the election processes.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining good practices and transparency to ensure peaceful and fair elections.

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.

SRINAGAR — In a significant development, the Lok Sabha on Tuesday passed the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 to grant scheduled tribe status to Paharis Ethnic Group and other communities in Jammu & Kashmir.

According to details available, the Lok Sabha also passed the Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 that seeks to include the Valmiki community in the Scheduled Caste list of Jammu & Kashmir.

The ST bill also includes Gadda Brahman, Koli and Paddari communities to the ST list of Jammu and Kashmir. The house was adjourned for the day soon after the two bills were passed.

The bills will now be taken up in the Rajya Sabha for consideration and passage. These bills were passed nearly seven months after they were introduced in the Lok Sabha. The bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha on July 26 last year.

The announcement to grant ST status to the Pahari Ethnic Group was made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during public rallies in Baramulla and Rajouri in October 2022.

The grant of ST status would make Paharis eligible for all benefits available to the ST category in Jammu and Kashmir. The Paharis are in the majority in the Nowshera, Kalakote-Sunderbani, Rajouri, Thanmandi, Surankote, Poonch-Haveli, Mendhar, Uri and Karnah assembly segments of J&K.

Notably, Paharis have been fighting for more than three decades for their inclusion in the Schedule Tribe (ST) category.

Prominent Pahari leaders Syed Mushtaq Bukhari (former minister), Raja Aijaz Ali, Vibodh Gupta and other leaders have been at the forefront of the battle to get ST status for Paharis.

NEW DELHI — The Parliament on Tuesday passed a bill to provide reservations to Other Backward Classes in local bodies in Jammu and Kashmir. The government said that the Union territory has undergone important changes since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.

Replying to the debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Law (Amendment) Bill 2024, Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai highlighted that the people of the Union Territory have started witnessing development done by the Narendra Modi government.

At present, there is no provision for reservation of seats for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in panchayats and municipalities in Jammu and Kashmir.

The bill seeks to provide reservation to OBCs in panchayats and municipalities in Jammu and Kashmir and bring consistency in the local body laws of the Union territory with the provisions of the Constitution.

"With this, justice will be ensured to the citizens of Other Backward Classes of Jammu and Kashmir for the first time after 75 years of independence," according to the statement of objects and reasons of the bill.

Rai, during the discussion on the bill in Lok Sabha, said that he did not refer to the Opposition’s demand for the government to declare a time frame for holding elections in Jammu and Kashmir and the restoration of statehood.

Rai said the opposition members, participating in the debate, were resorting to a drama of supporting the bill granting reservation to OBCs in panchayats and municipalities in Jammu and Kashmir and were raising other issues.