Stringent restrictions imposed in IIOJK ahead of sham polls
Srinagar: In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, severe restrictions have been enforced ahead of the second phase of so-called assembly elections scheduled for tomorrow.
According to Kashmir Media Service, polling will take place on Wednesday for 26 seats, including 15 in the Kashmir Valley and 11 in the Jammu region, across six districts of IIOJK. The occupation authorities have deployed Indian forces’ personnel in strength, particularly in Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal, Reasi, Rajouri, and Poonch districts.
To maintain tight control over the Kashmiris, the authorities have enacted strict measures. Surveillance drones are monitoring the skies, while numerous checkpoints have been established to scrutinize the movement of travelers and vehicles. These checkpoints are strategically positioned to deter protests and rallies, effectively stifling the voices of dissent.
Furthermore, CCTV cameras are being utilized for aerial surveillance, infringing upon the privacy and freedom of movement of the Kashmiri people. Local residents have expressed feelings of pervasive anxiety and fear as the heavy presence of Indian troops and ongoing search operations create an atmosphere of intimidation.
These severe restrictions not only disrupt the daily lives of Kashmiris but also infringe on their fundamental rights to assemble and express their opinions. Already regarded as a mere façade, the elections are now further questioned in legitimacy due to these heightened measures.
