Srinagar, National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah has accused the administration of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) of deliberately postponing assembly elections to maintain its control. In launching his party’s campaign, Abdullah highlighted the administration’s reluctance to return power to the people and criticized local bureaucrats for obstructing the electoral process.

According to Kashmir Media Service, during his campaign initiation for the Islamabad-Rajouri Parliamentary constituency, Abdullah voiced frustration over the administration’s stalling tactics, suggesting they prefer to govern without electoral legitimacy. His remarks followed a public address in Kulgam district, where he alleged that local officials cited security concerns to avoid scheduling the elections despite claims of normalized conditions in the region.

Abdullah emphasized the legal imperative for conducting assembly polls, referencing a Supreme Court deadline of September 30, imposed after reviewing petitions related to the revocation of Article 370. He expressed relief that elections must occur before this deadline, noting the chief election commissioner’s assurance of meeting this schedule. Abdullah’s statements underscore ongoing tensions in IIOJK regarding the restoration of democratic processes and the broader political dynamics following significant constitutional changes in the region.