Election Commission Kicks Off Preparations for Assembly Elections in J&K

Election Commission Kicks Off Preparations for Assembly Elections in J&K

Keywords: Election Commission, Jammu and Kashmir, Assembly Elections, Delimitation, Electoral Rolls, Voter Registration

New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated preparatory measures for the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The Himalayan state has been under President’s Rule since June 2018, with the last assembly elections held in 2014.

Delimitation Exercise:

The ECI has already completed the delimitation exercise, which redraws constituency boundaries based on population changes. The exercise, which was announced in March 2020, has increased the number of assembly seats in J&K from 83 to 90.

Electoral Rolls and Voter Registration:

The ECI is updating the electoral rolls to ensure that all eligible voters are registered. Special drives are being conducted to encourage new voter registrations, particularly among young adults. The last date for submission of claims and objections for the electoral rolls has been set as March 25, 2023.

Poll Schedule and Security:

The ECI is expected to announce the poll schedule for J&K in the coming months. Security arrangements will be given top priority, as the state has witnessed political unrest in the past. Central paramilitary forces will be deployed to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.

Election Preparedness:

The ECI has set up a high-level committee to oversee election preparedness in J&K. The committee will coordinate with the state administration, security agencies, and political parties to ensure a smooth and credible election.

Political Landscape:

The political landscape of J&K is complex, with several regional and national parties vying for power. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to face a challenge from the National Conference, the People’s Democratic Party, and the Congress.

Significance:

The upcoming assembly elections in J&K are of utmost importance. They will mark the return to democracy in the state after over four years of President’s Rule. The outcome of the elections will have a significant impact on the political future of J&K and its relations with the rest of India.