As assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir have begun after a decade, there is lively atmosphere in the region with excitement among voters, contesting political parties and the whole country is following it closely.

This election has been considered as of importance in shaping the future course of development and politics in the valley.

Not just the country but global eyes are also fixed in this election as diplomats from 16 countries including the USA, Mexico, Guyana, South Korea, Somalia, Panama, Singapore, Nigeria, Spain, South Africa, Norway, Tanzania, Rwanda, Algeria, and Phillippines land in J&K to observe the second Phase of voting.

This is the first time that Indian government has invited foreign diplomats to observe the election process in the Union Territory after abrogation of Article 370. As per the sources, this initiative aims to showcase ‘peaceful conduct of the electoral process’ and ‘participation of people at a large scale.’ The 20 member delegation of observers include four representatives from Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Major constituencies voting in second phase of J&K assembly elections are Ganderbal, Srinagar, Budgam, Reasi, Rajouri, Poonch.

The delegation arrived in J&K on Wednesday where they visited a polling station in Ompura of Budgam. They will visit several polling stations as part of their observation.

What Did The Observers Say?

The delegation has begun their observation and seem to enjoy the experience here.

A diplomat from Tanzania, Deo told ANI, “What I see is that people are excited to vote and they are bringing children with them so that they can learn what the democratic process is…I have never seen this kind of practice before, this is my first time. So, it is so fine.”

Another diplomat, DCM of South Korean Embassy in India, Lim Sang Woo said, “I am here for the first time. It is very beautiful. It is wonderful to be amongst the people who are here to cast a vote. I see a really vibrant enthusiasm and this is really democracy working. So, congratulations. It is well organised. I was happy to see little kids with their parents…I think they are here to learn from their parents how democracy works. That was really impressive.”

Omar Abdullah’s Criticism Of Foreign Diplomats’ Visit

JKNC vice president & party candidate from Ganderbal and Budgam, Omar Abdullah has criticized the arrival of foreign diplomats as observer for assembly polls.

Speaking to ANI, he said, “I don’t understand it. When the same people comment on J&K, Government of India issues a statement that Jammu & Kashmir is our internal matter and others should not interfere. If you do not want interference or their comments, why are they being brought here? People are not voting here because they are very happy with the Govt of India. People are exercising their franchise despite all the attempts by Govt of India. Otherwise, the Govt has not left any stone unturned in last 6-7 years in troubling people…But Govt of India wants all the credit…If diplomats can be brought here, why are foreign journalists not being permitted to come here and cover elections…Diplomats are being brought here as guided tourists. This is not good.”

Second phase of voting is underway in J&K.

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