India: Kashmir to Vote in Polls From Sept. 18

Background

* India will hold provincial elections in the disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir beginning on September 18. * The elections will be the first since India revoked Kashmir's semi-autonomous status in 2019.

Election Details

* The elections will be held in three phases: * Phase 1: September 18 * Phase 2: September 24 * Phase 3: September 30 * Voting will take place in 83 constituencies. * Over 8 million people are eligible to vote.

Key Issues

* The main issue in the election is the future of Kashmir's relationship with India. * Other issues include: * Economic development * Unemployment * Corruption * Security

Candidates

* The main political parties contesting the election are: * Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) * Indian National Congress (INC) * People's Democratic Party (PDP) * National Conference (NC)

Security

* Security is a major concern for the elections. * India has deployed over 100,000 security personnel to the region. * There have been several incidents of violence in the lead-up to the elections.

International Reaction

* The international community is closely watching the elections. * Some countries have expressed concern about the human rights situation in Kashmir.

Conclusion

* The elections in Jammu and Kashmir are an important event for the region. * The results of the elections will have a significant impact on the future of Kashmir.

Sources

* [BBC News](https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-62556649) * [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/aug/19/india-to-hold-elections-in-kashmir-for-first-time-since-2019) * [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/19/world/asia/kashmir-elections-india.html)