Balbir Ram Rattan
The 2024 assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, held after the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, have been termed as ‘incident-free’ – a testament to the region’s transformative journey. For decades, Jammu and Kashmir stood at the heart of security concerns, but the successful completion of peaceful elections has marked a pivotal moment in the Union Territory’s history. This achievement is not just political; it reflects the concerted efforts of the Modi government, the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, and the security forces to strengthen democracy and stabilize a region that has long grappled with unrest.
The abrogation of Article 370 and 35A in August 2019 marked a turning point for Jammu and Kashmir, signaling its transition from a special status state to a Union Territory (UT). The bifurcation of the erstwhile state into the separate UTs of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh reshaped the governance structure, bringing the region closer to the constitutional framework of India. This significant political shift allowed for greater central intervention, with the goal of integrating J&K fully into India’s democratic fold while ensuring security and development.
Since the revocation of Article 370, the central government has focused on initiatives aimed at checking militancy, improving security, and fostering development in a region known for political turbulence. This 2024 election stands as a beacon of how far Jammu and Kashmir has come, showcasing the evolving political landscape where democracy is no longer hindered by violence or fear.
The peaceful conduct of the 2024 elections was a far cry from the troubled electoral history of Jammu and Kashmir, which had often been marred by insurgency, political boycotts, and violence. This time, however, the proper planning and extensive security measures implemented by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and local authorities ensured a secure environment for voters across the UT. Regions once considered hotbeds of unrest were transformed into zones of calm, where democracy thrived without fear.
The role of local police was critical in coordinating with the army and paramilitary forces to maintain a robust security setup. Patrols, frequent ground checks, and the deployment of drones to monitor large crowds in sensitive areas ensured that no region was overlooked. This strategy paid off, as polling stations across Jammu and Kashmir operated smoothly without any incident.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the 2024 elections was the significantly high voter turnout, which exceeded expectations. In areas that had once witnessed voter apathy or boycotts due to fear, people now flocked to polling booths in large numbers. This enthusiasm was particularly notable among the youth, with many first-time voters making their voices heard in the democratic process. The active participation of young voters signifies a shift in mindset and a growing faith in the ability of democratic institutions to bring about real change.
Women, minorities, and economically disadvantaged groups also played a prominent role in this surge in voter turnout. In a region where political uncertainty had often dampened participation, the robust voter turnout in 2024 is a sign that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are re-engaging with democracy in unprecedented ways.
This enthusiastic response can be attributed to several factors. Particularly, the stringent security measures allowed voters to feel safe and confident about casting their ballots without fear of violence.
Use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) with Voter-Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), the focus on ensuring a clean and fair election played a key role in fostering trust.
The high voter turnout and incident-free elections reflect a shift in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. A region that once witnessed frequent political boycotts, unrest, and insurgency is now gradually embracing democracy as a means of shaping its future. The elections showcased the people’s growing belief in democratic institutions as a vehicle for change, leaving behind the specter of violence that had overshadowed the region for decades.
This growing engagement with the democratic process signals a promising future for Jammu and Kashmir, where political participation can serve as the foundation for long-term peace and development. The success of the elections has sent a powerful message not only to the people of J&K but also to the world: that Jammu and Kashmir is transitioning toward a more stable, democratic, and peaceful existence.
While the 2024 elections were a significant success, the focus now shifts to sustaining this momentum. The peaceful elections have renewed hope for the future of Jammu and Kashmir, but long-term peace and prosperity require continued attention to the region’s developmental needs. Addressing economic challenges, improving infrastructure, and fostering trust between the people and the administration will be key to maintaining stability in the region.
Moreover, the elections have provided the people of Jammu and Kashmir with a platform to reclaim their voice in the political process. As the region moves beyond its troubled past, these elections offer a glimpse of the potential for a peaceful and prosperous future, grounded in the principles of democracy and inclusive governance.
The 2024 assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir represent a watershed moment in the region’s history. They are a testament to the successful transition from years of conflict to an era of peace, stability, and democracy. The high voter turnout, the enthusiasm of first-time voters, and the smooth conduct of the elections highlight a region in transformation.
For the people of Jammu and Kashmir, these elections were more than just an opportunity to elect new leaders; they were a chance to reclaim their place in India’s democratic framework. As Jammu and Kashmir continues to move forward, these elections will stand as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the promise of a brighter, more peaceful future through democracy.
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