Kashmir to Hold First Assembly Elections in a Decade
Elections come five years after India's revocation of the region's special status, with voting set to begin on September 18.
- Nearly 9 million voters will participate in the three-phase election, concluding on October 1.
- The Supreme Court mandated the elections to be held by September 30, following the revocation of Article 370.
- Security concerns are high, with increased militant activity and large-scale police reshuffles preceding the polls.
- Local politicians demand restoration of full statehood and legislative powers for the region.
- The elections are seen as a critical step towards restoring democratic governance in Jammu and Kashmir.