Jammu & Kashmir Gears Up for First Elections Since Article 370 Revocation
India will conduct three-phased assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir starting September 18, the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which revoked the region's special status and restructured it into two Union Territories. The Election Commission announced the voting dates, with subsequent phases on September 25 and October 1, and results expected on October 4. This follows a Supreme Court ruling upholding the repeal of Article 370 and calling for the reinstatement of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.
The elections will take place amid tight security measures, with significant troop deployment to prevent any potential violence. Nearly 9 million voters are registered for the 90-member legislative assembly, which now includes 43 seats in the Jammu region and 47 in Kashmir. The assembly will have limited legislative powers, primarily overseeing local laws related to education and culture. Local politicians have been vocal about their demand for the restoration of full statehood and legislative powers.
