SRINAGAR (Web Desk) - Indian administered Kashmir has endured a violent insurgency for decades and has had a strained relationship with Delhi.
According to a foreign media report, local assembly elections are being held in Kashmir for the first time in ten years, with mixed reactions from the populace—some boycotting, others voting.
Engineer Rashid, accused in a terror funding case and jailed for five years, is now out on bail and actively campaigning.
Rashid's political agenda focuses on developmental issues, governance, and resolving the Kashmir issue, resonating with voters who lost statehood and autonomy five years ago.
Key issues in the elections include lack of jobs and rising prices, but the restoration of Kashmiri identity and autonomy remains central.
Previous elections were marred by violence and boycotts while peace remained fragile.
Also Read: India-controlled Kashmir votes in the second phase of polls to elect local government
Since 1990s, an armed insurgency against Indian rule has claimed thousands of lives, including civilians and security forces.
India has faced accusations of human rights violations and crackdown on dissent, with critics saying this has intensified in recent years.
Voting in the recent general elections was seen as a form of resistance against these issues.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi promotes a "new Kashmir," but locals express dissatisfaction, preferring the old Kashmir.
Despite the elections, real power will remain with the central government in this federally administered region, leaving many skeptical about true change.