Srinagar: Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing stringent security measures as the region prepares for the second phase of its assembly elections tomorrow. Authorities have deployed a significant number of Indian forces across six districts, intensifying surveillance and establishing multiple checkpoints to monitor and potentially curtail public movements and expressions of dissent.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the elections are set to proceed in 26 constituencies, encompassing 15 in the Kashmir Valley and 11 in the Jammu region. The districts of Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal, Reasi, Rajouri, and Poonch are seeing an escalated presence of security personnel. These measures include the use of surveillance drones and the strategic placement of checkpoints designed to discourage any form of protest or rallies, effectively silencing opposition voices.
Additionally, the authorities have employed CCTV cameras for aerial surveillance, further infringing on the privacy and restricting the freedom of movement of the Kashmiri population. The local populace has reported widespread feelings of anxiety and fear, exacerbated by the omnipresent Indian troops and continuous search operations, contributing to a climate of intimidation and repression.
These extensive security arrangements not only disrupt the daily routines of the local residents but also impinge upon their basic rights to assemble freely and voice their opinions. The legitimacy of the elections has been increasingly questioned, with many viewing them as merely superficial, particularly in light of the oppressive conditions imposed.