Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Polls Announcement Welcomed by Congress, CPI (M)

The Congress and CPI (M) in Jammu and Kashmir welcomed the Election Commission’s announcement of upcoming assembly polls. Set over three phases from September 18 to October 1, the polls mark the restoration of democracy after six years. Key leaders emphasized the need for fairness and adequate security.

The Congress and CPI (M) in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday welcomed the Election Commission's announcement of assembly polls. Citizens have been eagerly waiting for the restoration of democracy in the Union Territory.

According to the Election Commission, the assembly polls will take place in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, with vote counting scheduled for October 4.

"Better late than never," commented Ravinder Sharma, senior vice-president of the Pradesh Congress Committee, responding to Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar’s announcement.

Sharma noted that people have been waiting for six years for these elections since the fall of the PDP-BJP government in June 2018. He added that while they had been advocating for full statehood restoration before elections, the current announcement is still a positive step. He urged the Election Commission to ensure a level playing field and adequate security.

The Commission should be cautious about unnecessary transfers, Sharma added, referring to the significant reshuffle in the police and civil administration on the day of the poll announcement.

Senior CPI (M) leader M Y Tarigami also expressed support for the announcement, terming it a vital step toward democratic exercise with assurances for a fair playing field and security for candidates and voters alike.