The Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir region is experiencing heightened security measures as it prepares for its first election in a decade. The polls, scheduled for September 18, 25, and October 1, come amid ongoing tensions in the area.
The government has deployed additional paramilitary forces, citing the need to ensure smooth conduct of the electoral process. However, this move has drawn criticism from some quarters, with opponents arguing it could intimidate voters and influence the outcome.
The upcoming election follows the central government's 2019 decision to revoke Article 370, which had granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Home Minister Amit Shah recently stated that this change is irreversible, sparking debates about the region's autonomy.
Critics of the current administration allege that the increased military presence is an attempt to manage the political landscape. They claim that previous elections in the region, dating back to 1951, have been subject to political and military intervention.
Supporters of Kashmiri autonomy are calling for the immediate withdrawal of Indian forces from the region. They argue that the current electoral setup does not reflect the true will of the local population.
As the election approaches, observers are closely watching how these competing narratives will play out at the polls.
