With the Supreme Court’s deadline for holding Assembly elections fast approaching, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has ramped up its efforts to ensure a smooth electoral process in Jammu and Kashmir. Today, the ECI conducted a series of crucial meetings with political leaders and administrative heads in the region.
High-Level Meetings with Political Leaders
The ECI delegation, led by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar and comprising Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and S.S. Sandhu, convened at the International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar. The team met with representatives from major political parties including the National Conference (NC), People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Congress.
Key Demands and Concerns Raised
Political leaders across the spectrum expressed a unified demand for immediate Assembly elections. They emphasized the need for a level playing field to ensure fair elections and highlighted various issues related to political, security, and developmental challenges in the region.
National Conference (NC): NC Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani called for the swift conduct of elections, stressing that the current administration, led by the Lieutenant Governor (LG) and a few officers, cannot adequately address the myriad issues faced by the people. He urged the ECI to ensure a fair and unbiased electoral process.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP): PDP leader Khurshid Alam and Asiya Naqash raised concerns about the potential bias in the LG’s decisions and stressed the importance of restoring democratic governance through timely elections. They questioned why J&K has been deprived of democracy while other regions hold elections.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): BJP’s J&K unit, represented by RS Pathania and Sunil Sethi, called for elections to be held within the Supreme Court’s deadline. They also requested enhanced security for political workers and fair handling of election-related issues.
Congress: Congress leaders GN Monga and Ravindra Sharma underscored the need for democratic restoration in J&K and addressed concerns about security and discriminatory practices in the provision of security. They demanded a level playing field for all parties.
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP): BSP leader Sirindra Singh highlighted issues such as the need to regulate voting rights for outsiders and requested improved security for party leaders during the campaign. They also sought rectification of errors in voter lists and better polling booth arrangements.
ECI’s Engagement and Next Steps
The ECI’s visit underscores its commitment to ensuring a transparent and efficient electoral process. During their visit, the ECI team reviewed the preparedness with District Election Officers, Superintendents of Police, and other key officials. They also held discussions with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and other coordination officers.
The visit will culminate with a final meeting with the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police on August 9, followed by a review in Jammu with enforcement agencies and a concluding press conference.
The ECI’s proactive measures reflect its dedication to addressing the various concerns of stakeholders and ensuring the timely conduct of Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.
