Several political parties meet ECI, demand early Assembly elections in J&K

Srinagar, Aug 08: The representatives of several political parties on Thursday met Election Commission of India (ECI) at SKICC here, who demanded early Assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir.

The political parties whose representatives met include NC, PDP, BJP while as the discussions were underway when this report was filed.

National Conference (NC) five-member delegation headed by Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani met ECI and demanded early assembly election in the region.

“Today we are here to meet ECI. It is good the poll body has arrived here to listen us, and we are hopeful the right decision will be taken now.” Wani told reporters, and added, “The people of Jammu and Kashmir are waiting for an elected government for last ten years”.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) delegation also met Election Commission of India and apprised them about the problems facing by people at grassroots level in absence of an elected government.

“We put forth our demand before ECI. We impressed them to hold Assembly elections without any further delay,” PDP senior woman leader Asiya Naqash said.

Speaking to reporters, BJP senior leader R S Pathania said that it is our hope that free and fair elections should be held and biggest voter turnout will come on record so that people of Jammu and Kashmir will form their own elected government. “We are hopeful the election dates will be announced soon and people of J&K will be given a chance to decide their future,” he said.

BJP chief spokesperson Sunil Sethi said our party always advocated early assembly polls in the region and for that BJP is fully prepared on ground.

“We want that Assembly elections should be held at the earliest. BJP is fully prepared for the elections. However we have certain concerns regarding security and phasing of the elections,” Sethi said.

Notably Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday morning arrived on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir during which it will hold discussion will political parties, police & civil administration and other stakeholders to get latest feedback about the conduct of Assembly elections in the region.