On 25 September, the Jammu and Kashmir is going for the second phase of polling for the Assembly elections . During the first phase of elections, the people across the south Kashmir region and some pockets of Jammu witnessed a record number of voter turnout. The voter turnout especially in erstwhile militancy infested pockets was encouraging.
The constituencies like Pulwama, Shopian and Anantnag during the last few elections were marred by the violence followed by strict boycott to voting. The polling booths would wore a deserted look and highly guarded by the security personnel. This time the situation was altogether different and the dance of democracy was at extempore.
The fears had turned the wind on other side of divide unlike in last when the common people would bear the brunt of violence. Record number of candidates were in fray and their fate has already been sealed in the electronic voting machines.
Now it is the turn of central Kashmir where the voters may seal the fate of hundreds of candidates among which some are the contenders of top posts. The last phase of polling would take place for North Kashmir region. In the last over three decades, it is for the first time the elections in Jammu and Kashmir are being held in free and fare atmosphere.
Post Article 370, the situation in the Union Territory has remarkably changed and the democracy is strengthening it’s roots in Kashmir. However, the democracy may be in final shape when the people in the UT have its own elected government.
People in the UT may have this elected government after a long 10 years wait. The centre government shall, however, extend its full support to the government whichever is being elected in Jammu and Kashmir.
No political party is Supreme to the will of people in democracy. The people of Kashmir may hope for the peace, progress continuing on its soil following the sufferings , pain and agony that emanated from the violence and disturbances for over three decades due to Pakistan’s proxy war. For now the onus lies on Centre government.
