Kashmir Sees Strong Voter Turnout in Second Phase of Local Elections Amid Calls for Statehood Restoration
Residents in Indian-controlled Kashmir participated in the second phase of local elections on Wednesday, marking the first such vote since the region’s semi-autonomy was revoked in 2019. With voter turnout reaching about 55%, many expressed hopes for the restoration of Kashmir’s autonomy and statehood.
Despite the region’s history of boycotts and violence, separatists did not boycott this election. Security measures were stringent, and no major incidents were reported. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) campaigned on promises of economic development, while opposition parties vowed to reverse the 2019 changes and tackle key issues like unemployment.
The third phase of voting is scheduled for October 1, with results expected on October 8.