omar-abdullah-welcomes-j-k-assembly-poll-schedule

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a three-phased assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled for September 18, 25, and October 1, with vote counting on October 4.

The announcement has been welcomed by National Conference vice-president Omar Abdullah.

 

"Some time back, the ECI announced the schedule for assembly elections in J&K. People of J&K were waiting for this day for a long time. Better late than never," Abdullah told reporters.

 

The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister noted that it is perhaps the first time since the 1987-88 elections that the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir are being held in such a short period and just a few phases.

 

"It obviously will be a new experiment for the political parties. But as far as our party is concerned, the NC was prepared for this day and will soon start the campaigning," he added.

 

Abdullah emphasised the importance of conducting free and fair elections, as stated by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.

 

He also expressed concerns over recent massive transfers in the police and civil administration in the Union Territory.

 

"We have doubts that this government is helping the BJP and its B, C, and D teams. The ECI should immediately take notice and examine them and stop those transfers which are outside their guidelines," he said.

 

The Election Commission of India has scheduled assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir to take place over three phases in September and October, a decision welcomed by National Conference vice-president Omar Abdullah, who stressed the importance of conducting fair polls amidst concerns over

recent administrative changes.