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The second phase of polling in Jammu and Kashmir saw an unusual sight – a delegation of 15 foreign diplomats arriving in Srinagar to observe the voting process. Led by US Deputy Chief of Mission Jorgan Andrews, this delegation included representatives from Mexico, Korea, Somalia, Spain, Singapore, Nigeria, Philippines, Tanzania, Norway, Panama, Algeria, Rwanda, and South Africa. Their mission was not just to observe the election but to assess the ground situation regarding law and order, meeting with various sections of society over two days.
The delegation visited several polling stations, interacting with the electorate and observing the voting process firsthand. Their observations seemed to have satisfied them regarding the arrangements made by the Election Commission of India to encourage participation. This visit signifies a significant shift in New Delhi's approach to Kashmir, one that emphasizes increased diplomatic engagement.
Previously, such delegations were discouraged, but now they visit frequently. This change in policy follows the G20 tourism meet in Srinagar in May 2023, suggesting a conscious effort to present a different image of Kashmir to the world. The visit of foreign diplomats is a sign of growing confidence in the electoral process in Kashmir and a gesture towards normalizing the situation in the region.
Source: 15 Foreign Diplomats In Kashmir To Observe Polling Process