A high-level delegation of senior diplomats from various countries visited different polling booths in Budgam and Srinagar on Wednesday to observe the polling process in Jammu and Kashmir. The Ministry of External Affairs invited diplomats from approximately 15 countries, including the United States, Mexico, Guyana, South Korea, Somalia, Panama, Singapore, Nigeria, Spain, South Africa, Norway, Tanzania, Rwanda, Algeria, and the Philippines.
During their visits, the diplomats interacted with voters and expressed their delight at the high turnout at the polling stations. South African diplomat Lara Swart remarked, “I think we are from 15 countries. This is my first time in Jammu and Kashmir, and it is a privilege to be invited by the Ministry of External Affairs to witness the polling stations.”
A Rwandan diplomat noted, “It’s very well organized. We received excellent explanations about the process. Voting started at 7 am and is expected to continue until 6 pm, and they anticipate a good turnout.”
Norwegian diplomat commented on the importance of visiting different states and territories, stating, “This is my first time in Srinagar, and it is very important to engage with the people.”
Deo, a Tanzanian diplomat, expressed his surprise at the vibrant electoral practice, highlighting the concept of the pink polling booth, which is entirely managed by women to foster a welcoming atmosphere and encourage female participation. “What I see is that people are excited to vote, bringing their children along to learn about the democratic process. I have never witnessed such a practice before; it’s my first time here, and it’s truly impressive,” he said.
A representative from the Singapore High Commission mentioned the similarities between India’s electoral process and that of Singapore, thanking the Ministry of External Affairs for organizing the trip. Alice Cheng stated, “The organization is very similar to Singapore, where government buildings are utilized to make voting accessible. I thank the MEA for this opportunity.”
After observing the elections in J-K, Lim Sang Woo, Deputy Chief of Mission of the South Korean Embassy, described his experience as “very impressive,” adding, “It is wonderful to be among the people casting their votes. I see a vibrant enthusiasm; this is democracy in action. I was particularly happy to see children with their parents, learning about how democracy works. That was truly impressive.”
Voting for the second phase of the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir commenced at 7 am on Wednesday, with over 25 lakh eligible voters casting their ballots for 239 candidates across 26 constituencies in six districts of the Union Territory. In this phase, a total of 2,578,099 voters are eligible to participate, comprising 1,312,730 male voters, 1,265,316 female voters, and 53 voters identifying as third gender. The final phase of polling is scheduled for October 1, with vote counting taking place on October 8.