The Election Commission of India is gearing up for a crucial visit to Jammu and Kashmir to evaluate the state's readiness for the upcoming elections. Heading the delegation will be Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and SS Sandhu, who will be in the Union Territory from August 8 to 10. Their itinerary includes engagements with local administrative officials and representatives from various political parties in both Srinagar and Jammu regions.
One of the key events scheduled during the visit is a review meeting with enforcement agencies in Jammu on August 10, followed by a press conference where the commission will share their findings with the media. This visit is part of the commission's ongoing efforts to ensure the smooth conduct of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, following assurances made earlier this year by CEC Rajiv Kumar regarding the commitment to holding assembly elections in the Union Territory. The commission's emphasis on engaging with stakeholders and assessing the electoral climate reflects their dedication to upholding the democratic process in the region.
In the context of the recent Lok Sabha Elections in 2024, which witnessed a remarkable voter turnout in Jammu and Kashmir, CEC Kumar expressed optimism about the upcoming Assembly elections. He highlighted the significant participation of the populace as a positive indicator for the democratic process in the Union Territory. As Jammu and Kashmir approaches the completion of five years as a Union Territory, this visit holds particular significance, considering the region's transformation into two Union Territories in 2019 following the abrogation of Article 370. Since then, governance has been overseen by the Lieutenant Governor, marking a new chapter in the region's administrative landscape.