Calls for Early Elections in J&K as Election Commission Readies Schedule Announcement

National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah urges for early elections in J&K. The Election Commission is set to announce the assembly election schedule for various states, raising hopes for J&K elections. The region hasn't had an elected assembly since 2018, drawing criticism amid security concerns.

National Conference (JKNC) Vice President Omar Abdullah, on Thursday, called for early assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. As the Election Commission of India is readying to announce the schedule for Assembly elections in Haryana and possibly J&K, Abdullah emphasized the need for urgent electoral intervention in the region.

“We don't know for sure if dates will be announced for J&K. That's speculation. We hope that they are announcing dates for J&K. But in the past, we have also expected an announcement and one hasn’t been forthcoming. J&K has been without an elected assembly since 2018. This is perhaps the longest period without an elected government,” Abdullah stated, reinforcing his call for elections according to Supreme Court guidelines.

Former JK Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah also stressed the necessity of elections, pointing out the continuous security issues despite claims that the abrogation of Article 370 would mitigate terrorism. The Supreme Court directed the central government to complete the election process in J&K by September 30, 2024. The Election Commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting elections there at the earliest.

The Election Commission is expected to announce the election schedule on Friday afternoon, which could include the timeline for J&K's long-awaited elections, as well as those for the 288-member Maharashtra legislative assembly.