In a historic event, foreign diplomats from 15 countries arrived in Kashmir on September 25, 2024, to observe the electoral process during the second phase of assembly elections. The delegation expressed satisfaction with the voting procedures after visiting several polling booths, although Omar Abdullah, vice-president of the National Conference (NC), criticized the visit as “a guided tour.”
U.S. diplomat Jorgen Andrews highlighted the visit’s significance, stating, “It’s a rare opportunity to come to Kashmir and see the electoral process and see democracy in action. The election process looks very smooth and professional. Everything is well set up, and it seems like an exciting exercise.” His remarks are notable in light of critical reports from the U.S. Congress post-2019, which stressed the need to restore democratic processes in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). This visit marks a diplomatic success for the Indian government, aiming to project a peaceful and participatory electoral environment in J&K amid a backdrop of over 35 years of militancy.
Andrews remarked, “Elections in J&K are being organized in a typical fashion. It is a great opportunity to witness a sub-national level election, especially after a decade.” The 15-member delegation, invited by the External Affairs Ministry, was permitted to observe polling in Budgam and Srinagar districts, covering 11 constituencies during this phase.
The group included diplomats from Mexico, Guyana, South Korea, Somalia, Panama, Singapore, Nigeria, Spain, South Africa, Norway, Tanzania, Rwanda, Algeria, and the Philippines. Alice Cheng, a diplomat from Singapore, commented on the polling process, noting, “It’s very similar to how we conduct elections in Singapore, using government buildings as polling stations for easy access. Our purpose is to observe polling and to see how democracy operates on the ground.”
The diplomats showed particular interest in the unique pink polling booths established for female voters in Srinagar, with South Korean diplomat Sang Woo Lim stating, “The pink polling station is inventive. It’s a great way to attract more voters.”
Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah questioned the rationale behind inviting foreign diplomats, pointing out the Indian government’s stance that foreign commentary on J&K is an internal matter. “If foreign governments’ comments are dismissed as internal issues for India, why are foreign diplomats invited to observe elections here?” he asked, adding criticism about the selective nature of the invitation while foreign journalists were barred from covering the elections. Abdullah asserted that the credit for voter turnout belongs to the citizens actively participating in the electoral process after a 10-year hiatus.
In contrast, J&K Apni Party chief Altaf Bukhari welcomed the presence of the diplomats, suggesting that witnessing peaceful elections in Kashmir could serve as a model for other countries, including the U.S., where electoral violence has been more prominent.
Published – September 25, 2024, 11:14 am IST
