BJP's Shazia Ilmi Slams Omar Abdullah Amid Transparent Elections in J&K

BJP spokesperson Shazia Ilmi criticizes Omar Abdullah for spreading misinformation, claiming J&K elections are now transparent. She underscores the importance of the first assembly elections post-Article 370 abrogation as a democratic celebration. Omar Abdullah comments on turnout and blames central government for the situation.

BJP National Spokesperson Shazia Ilmi on Thursday criticized National Conference Vice-President Omar Abdullah for allegedly spreading misinformation about the electoral process in Jammu and Kashmir. Ilmi emphasized that current elections in J&K are conducted with complete transparency, unlike previous polls marred by alleged rigging.

'What does Omar Abdullah think? The era when he could say one thing in Srinagar and another in Jammu is over. This is the age of social media, and lies won't work,' she told ANI in Srinagar. According to her, the current voting process is a demonstration of transparency and democracy.

Ilmi highlighted the significance of the first assembly elections in J&K since the abrogation of Article 370, describing it as a celebration of democracy. She noted the global attention these elections have garnered, referring to a delegation of diplomats who observed the second phase of polling on September 25.

Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah expressed his expectations for a higher voter turnout. 'I was hoping for a larger participation because there was no boycott, no attacks, and no threats to voters,' he stated. Abdullah partially blamed the central government for portraying high turnout as a sign of normalcy.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) reported that the second phase of assembly polls, held on September 25, recorded 57.03 percent voter turnout till 11:45 pm. Specific districts—Budgam, Ganderbal, Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, and Srinagar—reported turnout ranging from 29.81 percent to 74.70 percent.

The final phase of elections in Jammu and Kashmir is scheduled for October 1, with vote counting set for October 8, applicable to both J&K and Haryana assemblies.

(With inputs from agencies.)