Multi-tier security in place for polls: IGP Kashmir

Srinagar, Sep 16: With the first phase of the much-anticipated assembly elections set to take place on September 18, Kashmir’s security apparatus has been fortified to ensure a safe and fair voting process, Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Vidhi Kumar Birdi said on Monday.

He said multi-tier security arrangements were in place to allow citizens to exercise their democratic right without fear.

The assembly elections, the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, are seen as a critical step in restoring the political process in J&K.

“J&K Police have made elaborate security arrangements for the assembly polls so that the maximum number of people can exercise their right to vote,” Birdi said. “The goal is to ensure elections are held in a peaceful, free, and fair atmosphere.”

He said that the security setup involves a coordinated effort between the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CAPF), J&K Armed Police, and the J&K Police.

These forces will be deployed at all levels, from strong rooms where Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are stored to polling stations across Kashmir.

“The CAPF units, JKAP, and J&K Police are part of a robust multi-tiered security plan, be it for strong rooms, polling stations, or polling booths,” the IGP Kashmir said underlining the strategic importance of securing these critical points.

“The security grid is alert and vigilant to thwart any attempts to destabilise the situation in Kashmir,” he said. “Our goal is to create an environment where voters feel safe and come out in large numbers to participate in the democratic process.” Apart from the security aspects, the IGP Kashmir said the broader mission of encouraging maximum voter participation in the upcoming elections.

“The thing to appreciate is that a maximum number of people should be able to exercise their voting right and take part in the democratic process,” he said. “We will endeavour to provide a secure environment so that people come to vote in large numbers.”

The elections are being held in three phases. Voting for 24 seats will be conducted in the first phase on September 18, with the second phase scheduled for September 25 covering 26 seats.

The final phase will take place on October 1, when voting for the remaining 40 seats will occur. The counting of votes is slated for October 8, when the fate of candidates and parties will be revealed. The IGP Kashmir said that the security grid is ever-watchful and prepared to deal with any eventuality.

He expressed optimism that the elections would proceed without major incidents.

“We are confident that with the arrangements made, we will ensure that the elections are conducted in a manner that reflects the democratic aspirations of the people,” Birdi said.