J&K: Political parties welcome announcement of EC's poll schedule

Political parties across Jammu and Kashmir have welcomed the Election Commission’s announcement of three-phase Assembly elections starting September 18, marking a pivotal move toward reinstating democratic processes in the region after six years of Central governance.

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah praised the Election Commission for advancing the election date. “I am relieved that the decision was made earlier than initially expected,” Abdullah said. He expressed hope for an end to Central rule, noting the elections come after a decadelong hiatus since the last polls in 2014. Abdullah stressed his party’s preparedness, recalling their previous push for simultaneous elections with Parliamentary polls. He is optimistic about high voter turnout, stating, “People will come out in large numbers to participate.”