Srinagar, Feb 22: As the country prepares for the Lok Sabha elections slated for April-May 2024, active preparations are underway in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as in the Union Territory of Ladakh.
With Jammu and Kashmir accounting for five Lok Sabha seats and Ladakh for one, the electoral landscape is set for significant political activity.
In the previous 2019 General Election, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured victory in two seats, while the National Conference emerged triumphant in three. However, the Congress party failed to secure any seat, and 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 following 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 expected to follow a similar pattern, with the Election Commission of India likely to announce the election schedule in the coming weeks.
To ensure the smooth conduct of elections and assess the security situation, reports indicate that the full ECI is scheduled 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 has said it is committed to ensuring foolproof security arrangements to facilitate violence-free and transparent elections. Given the shadow of cross-border terror activities, 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.
The government said is committed to providing full security coverage to polling booths, election personnel, and voters to facilitate a seamless voting experience. Focus areas include the deployment of security personnel, surveillance mechanisms, and preemptive measures to counter any potential threats.
The Ladakh government said that with the support of the local administration and law enforcement agencies, it aims to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure a peaceful environment conducive to democratic participation. (KNS)
