India’s disputed Kashmir votes after special status scrapped

Indian-administered Kashmir began voting in its first local assembly elections since 2014, following the 2019 revocation of its semi-autonomous status. The election, held under heavy security, is seen as a test of democratic participation rather than policy-making. While many voters hope for local representation, key decisions will remain with New Delhi. The BJP government claims the region’s new status has brought peace and economic growth, but unemployment and resentment over restrictions persist.READ FULL