Kashmir Votes in Historic Local Election Amid Heavy Security and Renewed Tensions

Kashmir votes for local government amid tight security, marking first election since autonomy revocation.

Residents of Indian-controlled Kashmir began voting in the second phase of their local government elections on Wednesday, with about 2.6 million people choosing from 26 candidates in six districts, including Srinagar, where early morning lines stretched for miles.

This election is significant as it’s the first in a decade and the first since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government took over Kashmir in 2019, ending its semi-autonomous status.

The region is now divided into two union territories under direct Indian control, with the central government appointing administrators and maintaining a strong security presence.

Since losing autonomy, Kashmir has seen restrictions on civil liberties and media freedoms, creating a tense environment.

This election is notable for the absence of a boycott by separatist groups, a change from previous elections marked by violence and allegations of vote rigging.

To ensure order, authorities have set up checkpoints and deployed heavily armed forces.

The third phase of the election is scheduled for October 1, with the counting of votes expected to start on October 8.

The first round of voting, which began on September 18, saw a voter turnout of around 59%, described as “incident-free and peaceful” by Kashmir’s chief electoral officer.

However, foreign media access to polling stations has been severely limited, with most international journalists, including those from The Associated Press, denied access without explanation.

Kashmir is a disputed territory between India and Pakistan, with both countries claiming it.

Since 1989, militants in the Indian-controlled area have been fighting against the central government, reflecting the complex views of Kashmiris, who range from supporting the insurgent cause for either unification with Pakistan or independence.

India views this militancy as terrorism sponsored by Pakistan, a stance rejected by Pakistan, while many Kashmiris see it as a legitimate fight for freedom.

The conflict has resulted in the loss of thousands of lives.

This election is part of efforts to restore local governance and a legislative assembly in Kashmir; however, the new government will still operate under Union Territory status, meaning it remains directly controlled by the federal government, with India’s Parliament having the power to legislate.

For Kashmir to regain full statehood, it would need to be recognized as a state again.