Omar Abdullah blames Centre for 'low voter turnout' in Srinagar

Low voter turnout in Srinagar, courtesy of centre: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Sept 26: Former Chief Minister of J&K Omar Abdullah Thursday attributed the
the low voter turnout in capital Srinagar to the central government.

Abdullah said that bringing foreign diplomats to witness Kashmir elections is the government’s attempt ‘showcase normalcy in the region.’

"People of Srinagar didn't want to send a wrong message by projecting it as normalcy and acceptance of Article 370 abrogation. They made another mistake of bringing those diplomats to show the higher percentage of voting, but people of Srinagar didn't want that to happen,” news agency KNS quoted Omar Abdullah saying.

Despite the low turnout, Abdullah expressed gratitude to those who participated in the process.

Regarding the third-phase polling, Abdullah noted north Kashmir's historically high voter turnout.

"Normally, north Kashmir has polled votes in high percentage even in difficult times," he said. "I wish they vote again in good numbers and support National Conference (NC) candidates, and wherever our candidate is not contesting, they vote for Congress."

North Kashmir is voting in the third phase of elections to be held on October 1.