Hope ECI announces assembly elections in J&K: Dr Farooq Abdullah

Srinagar, Aug 6: National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah today welcomed the three day visit of the Election Commission of India (ECI) to Jammu and Kashmir and hoped that that the commission would announce the much anticipated assembly elections.

He was talking to media persons here. Dr Farooq emphasised the critical importance of conducting much awaited free and fair elections in the region. "It is imperative that the commission does not repeat such errors, as they have the potential to undermine the fragile peace that remains in the region. It is essential that the commission upholds its duty to ensure transparent and unbiased elections, in order to maintain the integrity of the democratic process," he said.

When asked bout the recent events unfolding in Bangladesh, the NC President strongly advised the union government to exercise caution regarding the situation on its eastern border. "In light of the ongoing turmoil in our neighboring country, it is imperative that the government proceed with caution. The events in Bangladesh should serve as a wake-up call not only for the nation itself, but for the entire global community. The uprising led by disgruntled youth resulting in the overthrow of a government is a stark reminder of the power of the youth. There is a limit to patience, and the simmering discontent has been brewing for far too long," he said.

Dr Farooq Abdullah emphasised the importance of maintaining cordial relations with all neighboring countries. "It is imperative to strengthen SAARC. I trust that Bangladesh will maintain positive relations with India," he said.