Residents in Indian-controlled Kashmir began casting votes in the second phase of a staggered election for a local government under elaborate security measures. This election marks the first time in decades that separatists have not boycotted the polls. The region's semi-autonomy and statehood, which were revoked by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in 2019, are key issues for voters.
The former state of Jammu-Kashmir was downgraded and divided into two centrally governed union territories, Ladakh and Jammu-Kashmir, directly ruled by New Delhi. The region has faced restrictions on civil liberties and media freedom since then.
About 2.6 million residents are eligible to elect 26 candidates in six districts, with a 37% turnout reported by early afternoon. Unlike previous elections marred by violence and boycotts, separatists are not boycotting the vote this time, with some activists running as independent candidates.
Most parties contesting the election have campaigned on promises to reverse the 2019 changes and address issues like unemployment and inflation. The BJP, however, has vowed to maintain the status quo while focusing on economic development.
The third phase of the election is scheduled for Oct. 1, with results expected on Oct. 8. Foreign media access to polling stations has been limited, with foreign diplomats recently taken on a tour of voting districts.
India and Pakistan both administer parts of Kashmir, with militants in the Indian-controlled region fighting against New Delhi's rule since 1989. The election aims to establish a local government and legislature for Kashmir, transitioning power from New Delhi to the region while remaining a 'Union Territory' under India's direct control.
The conflict in Kashmir has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties, with differing views on the nature of the insurgency. The election process is seen as a step towards restoring Kashmir's statehood and granting the region powers similar to other states in India.
