Political parties directed to hold rallies at designated places

Srinagar Mar 26:  With the parliamentary elections approaching, election authorities have directed political parties in Jammu and Kashmir to hold meetings and rallies at designated places with prior permission.
Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have intensified their campaign for the upcoming parliamentary elections.

J&K comprises five parliamentary constituencies, with three in the Kashmir Valley and two in Jammu. Currently, the National Conference holds three Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir: Farooq Abdullah represents Central Kashmir, Justice Hasnian Masoodi represents South Kashmir, and Mohammad Akbar Lone represents North Kashmir. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) holds two parliamentary seats in Jammu, represented by Dr. Jitendar Singh and Jugal Kishore.
The political parties have been directed to hold election rallies at designated places.
Sources say that security agencies have instructed contesting candidates to adhere to formulated security guidelines for the elections.
“Political parties have been advised to inform local police before holding any election rally in their respective areas,” a senior official said.
He said that election rallies will only be permitted at secured locations. “We must make adequate security arrangements before any election rally is held. Security forces are fully prepared to maintain law and order,” he added.
Similarly, political parties have been instructed to apply at least three days in advance of the proposed event date.
“This will enable the administration to facilitate proper coordination, ensure public safety, and minimize any potential disruptions,” a circular issued by election authorities reads.
Sources said that district election authorities have already discussed dos and don’ts with political parties, with other preparations also underway.
At least seven major political parties will participate in these elections, including the National Conference, People’s Democratic Party (PDP), BJP, Congress, J&K People’s Conference, J&K Apni Party, and Democratic Azad Party. These parties have intensified their election campaigns and are competing against each other.
Several political parties have announced their candidates for the two seats in Jammu, while parties in Kashmir are yet to finalize their candidates.