J&K LG calls for stricter laws to prevent groups like Jama’at from participating in electoral process

Srinagar, Sep 17: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, has called for stricter laws to prevent groups like Jama’at-e-Islami from participating in elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

He emphasized the need for a consensus among political parties and discussions in the Parliament to create a unanimous law that would bar forces with secessionist ideologies from electoral participation.

“The issue is not only about Jama’at. There are other groups also involved in elections. Previously, they boycotted elections under Pakistan's influence, which was supported on the ground by Jama’at-like forces. We must understand that our country operates on constitutional and legal principles, and the Election Commission of India (ECI) adheres to these methods. We have seen many such instances across the country, including J&K, where elected representatives during Lok Sabha elections have sparked widespread discussions,” LG Sinha said in an interview with NDTV.

In response to a query, LG Sinha reiterated the necessity of strict laws to address elements such as the banned Jama’at-e-Islami and ensure that the country operates within the framework of law and the constitution.

“There should be political consensus and parliamentary discussions to establish a strict law by the ECI to prevent these forces from participating in future mainstream elections. Without such a law, we cannot effectively stop these groups from participating,” he said.

Regarding the notable participation of independent candidates in the upcoming Assembly elections in J&K, LG Sinha described it as “a sign of a healthy democracy.”

He reflected on the past, noting that early elections in J&K saw a political party with 30 MLAs elected unopposed in 75 assembly segments. He added, “There was a perception of two types of MLAs—one elected by the people and the other by district collectors. Today, I receive feedback suggesting that had past elections been conducted fairly, the situation would be significantly better.”