The second phase of polling for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly began today with a recorded voter turnout of 24.10% by 11 a.m. As voters across 26 constituencies cast their ballots, a group of diplomats from 16 foreign missions arrived in Srinagar to observe the electoral process.
However, the move faced criticism from former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who labeled them “guided tourists.” Tight security and high-profile contests have further heightened the significance of this electoral phase in the politically sensitive region.
Diplomats Observe Polling Amid Criticism
On Wednesday, a delegation of diplomats from 16 foreign missions arrived in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, to witness the polling process firsthand. The presence of foreign diplomats in this sensitive region reflects the government’s attempt to portray an open and fair electoral process in front of the international community.
However, this move was met with sharp criticism from local political figures, most notably Omar Abdullah, a senior leader of the National Conference (NC) and former Chief Minister of the state.
Abdullah described the diplomats as “guided tourists,” questioning the decision to bar foreign journalists from covering the elections. “If diplomats can be brought here, why are foreign journalists not being permitted to come here and cover elections? Diplomats are being brought here as guided tourists,” Abdullah remarked, expressing dissatisfaction with the selective nature of foreign participation in observing the elections.
His remarks underline the ongoing skepticism many local leaders hold about the transparency of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, especially after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which stripped the region of its special status.
The international observation of the election, despite the restrictions on the media, has added to the tension surrounding these polls. It remains to be seen whether this diplomatic visit will boost global confidence in the electoral process or fuel further questions regarding the region’s political future.
Voter Turnout and Security in Focus
By 11 a.m. this morning, a voter turnout of 24.10% had been recorded as the second phase of voting proceeded across 26 constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir. This phase encompasses 15 constituencies in the Kashmir division and 11 in Jammu. Long queues were seen at many polling booths, indicating active participation from the electorate despite the tight security arrangements.
Security remains a significant concern during the voting process, given the history of unrest and insurgency in the region. Polling officials and law enforcement have worked to maintain order, with heavy security deployment across critical areas.
In addition to ensuring voter safety, the heightened security measures reflect the challenges of conducting free and fair elections in a region still marked by conflict and political uncertainty.
The turnout is seen as a positive indicator of democratic engagement, especially after months of campaigning by political parties across the region.
It is also a critical moment for political figures like Omar Abdullah, who have been vocal about the necessity of ensuring fair elections, as well as for the ruling BJP, which seeks to expand its influence in the state post-Article 370 abrogation.
Key Contests and High-Profile Candidates
The second phase of voting also sets the stage for some high-profile electoral battles. In Ganderbal, the family stronghold of Omar Abdullah, he faces stiff competition from the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) state secretary, Bashir Ahmad Mir, and independent candidate Sarjan Barkati, a jailed cleric.
Abdullah’s contest in Ganderbal is one of the most closely watched races, as it is a crucial test for both the National Conference and the PDP, two of the region’s most prominent political parties.
Meanwhile, in Budgam, Abdullah is up against PDP’s Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, adding to the high-stakes nature of his political future in this election. Budgam, another key constituency in the Kashmir Valley, has traditionally been a stronghold for regional parties like the NC and the PDP, making this race critical for both parties as they vie for dominance in the Valley.
In Jammu, the contest in Channapura is expected to be equally competitive, with prominent candidates like Apni Party chief Altaf Bukhari, National Conference candidate and businessman Mushtaq Guroo, PDP’s Mohammed Iqbal Trumboo, and BJP’s Hilal Ahmad Wani all in the fray.
Each of these candidates represents different political ideologies and aspirations, from regional autonomy to national integration, making this constituency one to watch as results unfold.
Among the other notable candidates is Ravinder Raina, the BJP’s Jammu and Kashmir chief, who has been actively campaigning to strengthen the party’s presence in the state.
His candidacy represents the BJP’s broader effort to gain ground in a region where regional parties have traditionally held sway. Tariq Hameed Karra, the J&K Congress chief, is another high-profile figure contesting from Central Shalteng, making the second phase of polling crucial for multiple national and regional political players.
As the second phase of polling progresses, the turnout, the presence of international diplomats, and the participation of key candidates underscore the significance of this election for Jammu and Kashmir.
With regional parties like the National Conference and PDP trying to regain their footing post-Article 370, and national parties like the BJP and Congress attempting to carve out a stronger presence, this election could serve as a turning point in determining the future political landscape of the region.
The criticism of foreign diplomats being portrayed as “guided tourists” by figures like Omar Abdullah points to the deeper tensions within the region. While the presence of diplomats signals an effort to promote transparency, the exclusion of foreign journalists raises questions about the broader messaging of the electoral process.
As voters continue to cast their ballots, the outcome of these high-profile contests will play a pivotal role in shaping Jammu and Kashmir’s political trajectory.
