Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar Assures Free and Fair Elections Amid Disruption Threats

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar reassures the public that the Election Commission is fully prepared to conduct free and fair assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana, despite attempts by some forces to disrupt the process.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has asserted that forces are attempting to disrupt the upcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, but the poll body's preparations are robust to ensure free and fair elections. "The ballot is the answer to such forces," Kumar stated as he briefed election observers for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana on Thursday.

During an interview with ANI, Kumar announced that election observers from various states, including General, Police, and Expenditure Observers, were briefed and instructed to be accessible to political parties and candidates to handle grievances and enforce election rules effectively. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is determined to conduct transparent elections in both regions.

Kumar emphasized the global attention on the J-K elections, highlighting the challenges posed by disruptive forces. He praised the high voter turnout during the Lok Sabha elections as a testament to J-K's democratic spirit. Kumar also detailed the vigilance against fake narratives, affirming, "Our officers will closely monitor these issues." The phased assembly elections in J-K start on September 18, covering 90 constituencies, with results on October 4. Haryana's elections are also set for October 1.

(With inputs from agencies.)