Srinagar bypoll: EC orders repoll in 38 booths

The decision to order re-polling was taken after officials of the State Election Commission and election observers held a meeting with leaders of mainstream political parties in Srinagar.  The BJP had demanded re-polling in the entire Srinagar-Budgam area.

Confirming the decision, J&K’s Chief Electoral Officer Shantmanu said, “This time, we have made elaborate and foolproof security arrangements at all the places where re-polling will be held on Thursday… We will be more cautious and enhanced security is in place.” He said counting of votes will take place on Saturday.

Eight people were killed in firing and over 200, including security personnel, were injured during the violent protests on Sunday.

Meanwhile, former chief minister Omar Abdullah questioned the logic behind holding a repoll in 38 polling stations in Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency in the wake of EC postponing the bypoll in Anantnag seat till May 25. “Situation isn’t conducive for polls in Anantnag but it’s conducive for a re-poll in the areas worst affected by violence on the 9th. Logic?” Omar tweeted.

Bandh in Jammu

Normal life was paralysed in most parts of Chenab Valley comprising Kishtwar, Doda and Ramban districts as residents observed bandh to protest against the killing of eight civilians, who died as police and paramilitary personnel opened fire to disperse mobs during polling in Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency on Monday.