NEWSLINKS US EDITION NEWS DEAR REDIFF THE STATES ARCHIVES
Shahid K Abbas in New Delhi
Chief Election Commissioner J M Lyngdoh on Sunday made a passionate appeal to the voters of Jammu and Kashmir to come out and vote 'fearlessly', but assured that no 'coercive measures' would be used by the security forces to 'force the voters to exercise their franchise'.
"None of you who does not wish to vote will be forced to do so," Lyngdoh said on the eve of the first phase of the assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.
"For the many who wish to vote, in spite of the bloodshed and turbulence, I assure you that the security forces are there in great numbers to protect you and enthusiastic polling personnel from Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and from within your own state are ready to serve you at the polling booth," he said.
He said the media and the diplomatic corps, in strength and from many parts from the world, will see the voting. "Don't disappoint us," Lyngdoh fervently appealed.
Lyngdoh said the Commission has issued special passes to 28 diplomats based in Delhi to go and see the election process in the state. "Sixteen diplomats would be visiting Kupwara and Baramulla in the first phase and two would go to Rajouri and Poonch," he said.
"They are free to do where ever they want. We do not think we need to be observed," the CEC said when asked if the diplomats would observe the poll.
Jammu and Kashmir Elections 2002: The complete coverage
Back to top
Tell us what you think of this report
