Pol Parties United in Push for Early J&K Polls as CEC Maintains Secrecy on Dates
“ECI Commited to Early Elections Despite Security Challenges”
“ECI Awaits Final Security Report Before Confirming J&K Poll Dates”
“Security Forces Ready to Ensure Peaceful Elections in J&K”
Srinagar : Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, Rajiv Kumar, has kept the suspense alive regarding the exact dates of the J&K Assembly polls.
He stated that the dates will be announced after the final security assessment is conducted in Delhi. Despite some security challenges, the CEC assured that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is committed to holding the polls at the earliest, and small attempts to disrupt the process won’t derail democracy.
Addressing the press conference in Jammu, the CEC emphasized that while recent militant attacks in the Jammu region could create a “chicken and egg” situation, the security forces are fully capable of handling these challenges.
He reiterated that the ECI would finalize the election dates following a thorough security review in Delhi, maintaining the suspense around the timeline.
The CEC also mentioned that all political parties in J&K are united in their desire for early elections. Feedback from security heads and local officers indicates that, despite some challenges, they are prepared for peaceful elections.
He highlighted that after the delimitation of J&K in May 2022 and the passing of the J&K Re-organization Act in December 2023, the process of holding elections began in earnest.
The CEC also responded to concerns from political parties regarding polling booth locations and security measures.
He assured that their demands for polling booths within a 2 km radius and CCTV coverage have been addressed.
Additionally, the CEC said any concerns about the clubbing of polling stations would be handled with care, except where geographical factors necessitate it.
