Srinagar, May 13: Voting underway in the Srinagar constituency took an controversial turn as former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah alleged that workers from his National Conference party had been detained in the lead up to elections. Casting his ballot alongside party Vice President Omar Abdullah, Farooq questioned the claims of a violence-free environment in Jammu and Kashmir.
The longtime politician stated that NC workers had been locked up for the past two days, directly contradicting assertions that polls were proceeding freely. Farooq called out Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding to know why loyal party members had been detained. He suggested the detentions were a scare tactic by those fearful of losing seats.
Omar Abdullah backed his father’s statements, revealing written complaints had been filed naming eight NC employees facing harassment. The Vice President decried these actions as an attempt to undermine the electoral process. Both Abudllahs urged Kashmiris to overcome any intimidation by exercising their right to vote.
This Srinagar constituency is holding its first election since Jammu and Kashmir’s status was altered in 2019. While some parties sat out the race, NC is actively campaigning. The voting forms part of a multi-phase process unfolding across the former state until early June. With questions now looming over access and transparency, all eyes will be on final results from this high-profile seat.
Home Jammu Kashmir Controversy Erupts as Abdullahs Claim Detention of NC Workers Amid Srinagar Polls
