HELD SRINAGAR: Indian-administered Kashmir elected its first government since restive Himalayan territory was brought under New Delhi's direct control, as voters backed opposition parties to lead its regional assembly. As results were announced, with an alliance of opposition National Conference (NC) and Congress parties to form government, supporters celebrated.

Election Commission figures showed NC and Congress had won 48 of 90 seats in assembly, with Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party coming distant second with 29. Some called vote a de facto referendum on federal government's decision to repeal territory's special status.

"People have given their judgment against what New Delhi did," social activist Iqbal Ahmad Bhat said.Half million Indian troops are deployed in far northern region, battling 35-year insurgency in which tens of thousands of civilians, soldiers and rebels have been killed, including dozens this year.

"We are happy with election results and hope that political rights will be restored," said Jahangir Ahmad, among cheering crowds outside home of territory's expected new Chief Minister, NC leader Omar Abdullah. Abdullah told reporters that people had "Voted resoundingly against policies of BJP". Critics however say assembly will only have nominal powers over education and culture.

New Delhi will also have power to override legislation and will continue to appoint Governor. BJP won seats in southern Hindu-majority Jammu region and fought only from about third of seats in occupied Kashmir valley.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 09 2024

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