Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections Phase 2 Records 55% Voter Turnout Amid Diplomatic Observers Controversy

Srinagar, September 2024 – The second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections recorded a voter turnout of over 55%, signaling active public engagement. This election is particularly significant, as it marks the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which revoked the region’s special status.

Voters from 26 constituencies across six districts, including Srinagar, Bandipora, and Ganderbal, went to the polls. These elections are being held to reconstitute the legislative assembly that has been dissolved for nearly a decade, and for the first time after Jammu and Kashmir’s transition into a Union Territory. This phase saw heightened security, with the Election Commission ensuring a peaceful and smooth process, despite the underlying political challenges.

Omar Abdullah’s Criticism

Amid the polling, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah voiced sharp criticism of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government, particularly regarding the presence of foreign diplomats. Diplomats from 16 countries, including South Korea, Tanzania, and Singapore, were invited to observe the electoral process. Abdullah questioned why diplomats were allowed but foreign journalists were barred from covering the elections. He accused the government of treating diplomats as “guided tourists” and argued that Jammu and Kashmir should not require international validation for its democratic processes.

Addressing media in Ganderbal, Abdullah stated, “If foreign diplomats can be brought here to observe, why aren’t foreign journalists allowed to cover these elections? This reflects a lack of transparency.” Abdullah further added that the local electorate’s participation in these elections was not a result of the government’s efforts but rather a testament to the will of the people.

Political Significance

The Assembly elections are a critical step in restoring democratic governance in the region. The elections come after a period of political vacuum, marked by the dissolution of the previous assembly in 2018, the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, and the bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories—Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. This political reorganization has had far-reaching implications, leading to debates over the restoration of statehood, the future of special privileges, and the path toward stability in the region.

Political parties across the spectrum have been engaging voters on a variety of issues, from unemployment and development to the restoration of statehood. The National Conference, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Congress, and BJP have all been making significant efforts to garner support, with the BJP attempting to consolidate its influence post-abrogation and the regional parties pushing for a reversal of constitutional changes.

The Role of Diplomats and International Attention

The involvement of foreign diplomats has been a contentious point. The government has described it as a move to showcase the transparent functioning of Indian democracy, even in sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir. The diplomats, many of whom shared their observations, highlighted how elections in the region reflected robust democratic participation. For instance, diplomats were impressed by the turnout and the enthusiasm among voters, with some commenting on the practice of parents bringing children to polling booths, which they found a unique aspect of the process.

However, critics like Omar Abdullah argue that the government’s decision to bring foreign diplomats, while denying access to international journalists, raises questions about media freedom and the government’s willingness to allow independent scrutiny. This move has added a layer of international attention to an already politically charged election, especially given the backdrop of post-Article 370 developments.

Voter Sentiments

Despite the ongoing political discourse, voter turnout in the second phase remained steady, reflecting a strong desire for a return to political stability. Local issues such as infrastructure development, employment opportunities, and the preservation of regional identity continue to drive voter concerns. Many voters, while welcoming the electoral process, expressed hope for long-term peace and governance that prioritizes development and justice in the region.

In addition to local engagement, the Election Commission reported smooth polling operations with no major incidents of violence or disturbances, thanks to a significant security presence.

The Road Ahead

With the final phase of voting set for October 1, the focus now shifts to how political parties will strategize to secure a majority in a politically fragmented landscape. Counting of votes is scheduled for October 8, which will determine the makeup of the new legislative assembly.

The results of these elections will have far-reaching implications, not just for Jammu and Kashmir but also for the broader national political narrative. As parties like the BJP look to assert their dominance in the region, local parties are pushing back, advocating for the restoration of pre-2019 privileges and addressing regional aspirations.

As Jammu and Kashmir continues its transition, the outcome of these elections could define the political trajectory of the Union Territory for years to come.