As the second phase of elections continues in Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of 15 foreign diplomats has arrived in Srinagar to observe the voting process and assess the law and order situation. Led by US Deputy Chief of Mission Jorgan Andrews and joined by six officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the group touched down in Srinagar at 10 AM. Over the next two days, the diplomats will interact with various segments of society.
The delegation includes representatives from countries such as Mexico, South Korea, Somalia, Spain, Singapore, Nigeria, Philippines, Tanzania, Norway, Panama, Algeria, Rwanda, and South Africa. They visited several polling stations, including Government Boys Secondary School in Ompora, Budgam, and SDA Bemina in Srinagar, to witness the voting arrangements firsthand.
According to a senior official, the diplomats expressed satisfaction with the efforts made by the Election Commission of India to ensure a smooth polling process. Initially, 20 diplomats were invited, but only 15 accepted the invitation for this visit.
The delegation’s visit reflects New Delhi’s increasing diplomatic engagement in Kashmir, a shift from the previous policy of discouraging foreign delegations from observing local conditions. This follows the recent G20 tourism summit held in Srinagar in May 2023, and the visit of a US delegation last month, which met with key political figures in the region.
As the second phase focuses on critical constituencies like Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Budgam, the third phase on October 1 will see North Kashmir, including Sopore, Kupwara, Handwara, and Bandipora, heading to the polls. More diplomats are expected to visit during the third phase to continue monitoring the election process in the region.
