Srinagar, July 31: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially announced that the long-awaited Assembly elections in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will be held in 2024, ending a nearly decade-long wait since the last polls in 2014. This announcement marks a significant milestone as J&K has been under President’s rule since December 2018.
The elections in J&K will coincide with those in Haryana, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra. However, due to security concerns and logistical challenges, the Assembly polls will not be held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar emphasized the Commission’s commitment to conducting these elections soon after the Lok Sabha polls. “We are dedicated to ensuring that the democratic process is upheld in Jammu and Kashmir, and the necessary arrangements are being made to facilitate free and fair elections,” Kumar stated.
This decision comes as the region continues to navigate complex political and security dynamics, particularly after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The electoral process will also involve a reorganization of the assembly constituencies, following the recent delimitation exercise.
As the region gears up for this crucial electoral exercise, all eyes are on the preparations and the steps taken to ensure a smooth and secure voting process.
