IIOJK witnesses increased military presence ahead of upcoming sham-polls
Srinagar: Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) is experiencing an increase in military presence ahead of sham-polls.
According to Kashmir Media Service, in the wake of sham-elections approach, the BJP-led Indian government and its installed Kashmir administration has deployed approximately 300 additional paramilitary force companies to the region.
The elections are scheduled to take place in three phases on September 18, September 25, and October 1. The government states this increased deployment is to ensure the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
Reports indicate that over the past six months, more than 400 arrests have been made in the region. Since 2019, sources claim that over 800 Kashmiri civilians have lost their lives in incidents involving Indian forces.
In 2024, over 100 search operations have reportedly been conducted in the area. The United Nations has expressed concern over the situation in Indian-administered Kashmir.
This pattern of increasing troop numbers during election periods has been observed in previous electoral cycles as well. Critics argue that these forces often remain in the region post-elections.
The situation continues to be a point of international concern and debate regarding the administration of the region.
