Election Commission to take call on deferring Anantnag-Rajouri LS Poll in 1-2 days

Srinagar, Apr 28: The Election Commission of India (ECI) is expected to take a decision within the next couple of days on whether to postpone the polling date for the Anantnag-Poonch-Rajouri (APR) Parliamentary constituency in Jammu and Kashmir. The seat is currently scheduled to go to polls in the third phase on May 7.
This comes after Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and Chief Electoral Officer P.K. Pole submitted a detailed report to the ECI providing comprehensive details on the weather conditions, road accessibility including the status of Mughal Road, and other relevant factors in the APR constituency.

The report was compiled based on inputs from various authorities and followed representations from several political parties and candidates seeking a revision of the poll schedule due to adverse weather with snowfall affecting areas like Mughal Road and Pir Ki Gali.
“A detailed report as sought by the Election Commission has been submitted by the CEO and the Chief Secretary which is based on details obtained from all concerned authorities regarding weather conditions, Mughal Road, accessibility and all other factors on Anantnag-Poonch-Rajouri Parliamentary constituency,” official sources stated.
Prior to the report’s submission, the Returning Officer for Anantnag had convened a meeting with candidates and their representatives to gather their viewpoints. While PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and NC nominee Mian Altaf opposed postponement citing expenditure already incurred, some independents and the Apni Party candidate favoured rescheduling due to rain and snow.
The ECI had sought the report after receiving representations from entities like the J&K BJP, People’s Conference, Apni Party, and some independent candidates highlighting difficulties faced by candidates in filing nominations and campaigning due to the road closures.
With 21 candidates in the fray for Anantnag, all eyes are now on the EC’s decision which could lead to a revision of the poll schedule for this crucial constituency spanning the Kashmir Valley and Jammu division.