Supreme Court Directs Assembly Elections in J&K by September 2024, Possible Synchronization with Lok Sabha Polls
New Delhi, 11th December 2023: The Supreme Court’s recent directive to restore full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and conduct assembly elections by 30 September 2024 has put an end to longstanding speculations surrounding the electoral fate of the region. Indications suggest that the state assembly elections may align with the scheduled Lok Sabha elections proposed for April-May next year.
While the most favourable scenario points towards simultaneous elections with the Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission is considering the practicality of ensuring robust security measures for both. If they are not held concurrently, alternative plans propose holding the assembly elections after the conclusion of the annual Amarnath Yatra, typically spanning July-August, with a potential timeline extending into September.
The Election Commission has diligently prepared for the upcoming elections, particularly completing the delimitation process well in advance. The state’s assembly seats have been increased from 107 to 114, with 24 reserved for Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) and the remaining 90 seats open for general elections. The distribution includes 43 seats for the Jammu region, 47 for the Kashmir region, nine reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST), two for Kashmiri displaced persons, and five nominated members.
The Election Commission, proactively moving ahead of the Supreme Court’s orders, is currently finalizing preparations for the assembly elections. A significant aspect of this preparation involves revising the voter list, with a special focus on the inclusion of displaced individuals residing outside the state. Reports indicate that approximately five lakh people, displaced from Jammu and Kashmir, are currently residing in various parts of the country.
The Supreme Court, justifying the Central Government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 (Temporary provisions concerning the State of Jammu and Kashmir), has mandated elections in Jammu and Kashmir by 30 September 2024. The ruling dismisses opposition allegations accusing the Central Government of deliberately delaying the elections and reinforces the commitment to restoring normalcy and democratic processes in the region.
