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A high-level delegation from the Election Commission of India (ECI), led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, arrived in Srinagar today to assess the poll preparedness in Jammu and Kashmir. The team, which includes Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, is set to conduct a comprehensive review of the region’s electoral arrangements ahead of the forthcoming elections.
The visit underscores the ECI’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process in the union territory, which has been under President’s rule since August 2019. This is the first major electoral exercise in the region following the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir.
Upon arrival, the delegation was received by senior officials from the Jammu and Kashmir administration and security forces. The ECI team is scheduled to hold a series of meetings with key stakeholders, including representatives from political parties, district election officers, and law enforcement agencies. These discussions are expected to focus on the logistical and security challenges unique to the region.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar emphasized the importance of the visit, stating, “Our objective is to ensure that the electoral process in Jammu and Kashmir is conducted smoothly and that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in a secure and fair manner.”The ECI delegation will inspect the deployment of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems to ensure their proper functioning.
Political analysts view this visit as a crucial step towards restoring democratic processes in Jammu and Kashmir. “The ECI’s proactive approach in reviewing poll preparedness is essential for instilling confidence among the electorate and ensuring a credible election,” said Professor Tariq Ahmed, a political science expert based in Srinagar.
As the region gears up for elections, the ECI’s interaction with local authorities and communities will be pivotal in addressing any concerns and facilitating a smooth electoral process. The delegation’s findings and recommendations will play a crucial role in shaping the final preparations for the polls, which are eagerly anticipated by residents of Jammu and Kashmir.