Lagatar24 Desk
Jammu: During his visit to Jammu and Kashmir to assess preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar confidently stated that no internal or external forces could prevent the Election Commission from conducting the polls. Speaking at a press conference in Jammu on Friday, Mr. Kumar emphasized the resolve of the Commission and the people of Jammu and Kashmir to protect and promote democracy in the Union Territory.
In his address, Mr. Kumar used a construction metaphor to highlight the readiness for elections, saying, “The foundation laid by you (the people and the administration) is now awaiting the construction of a strong building. We have to achieve new heights, and the time for that has come. If any internal or external force thinks that they can interfere and derail the Assembly elections, they are wrong. We are sure that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will give a befitting response to disruptive forces.”
When questioned about the challenges posed by the recent surge in terror attacks and encounters in the region, Mr. Kumar invoked the chicken-and-egg analogy to explain the situation. “We are working with full commitment and resolve that nothing will be allowed to disrupt the elections. If we don’t, it will become a chicken-and-egg situation. Whenever we talk about elections, such activities will increase, and we will be forced to step back. That would be like conceding defeat without even fighting. That won’t happen,” he asserted.
He further reassured that the security forces and administration are well-equipped to handle any challenges that might arise, adding, “These things will not have an impact on the elections at all. Our forces and the administration are capable enough to deal with any situation that arises. The flag of ‘jamhuriyat’ (democracy) has been raised and will be raised further.”
Mr. Kumar also discussed the Election Commission’s meetings with political parties in Jammu and Kashmir since their arrival in the Union Territory on Thursday. According to him, all national and recognized parties commended the people and the Election Commission for the successful conduct of the Lok Sabha elections, which saw a voter turnout of 58.46%—the highest in 35 years. “The parties said it had good participation and no violent incidents took place, which boosted people’s confidence. All the parties demanded that the Assembly polls be held at the earliest so that there are elected representatives in Jammu and Kashmir who have a better connection with local residents,” Mr. Kumar stated.
Jammu and Kashmir have been without an elected government for over six years, with the last Assembly elections held in December 2014. The Supreme Court has set a deadline of September 30 for the Election Commission to hold Assembly polls in the Union Territory, which was bifurcated and had its special status under Article 370 removed on August 5, 2019.
