India-occupied Kashmir began voting on Wednesday in its first local elections since the 2019 revocation of its semi-autonomous status, a move that triggered widespread anger in the region.

The elections, which will take place in three phases, are the first to be held since the Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, imposed direct control from New Delhi.

The territory, home to 8.7 million registered voters, has been governed by a federally appointed governor since the change. The regional assembly election, the first in a decade, is seen by many residents as a chance to exercise their democratic rights, though practical policy decisions will remain largely under New Delhi’s control.

Heavy security was present as voters queued to cast their ballots in the staggered elections, which are being held in phases due to security concerns and the region’s challenging terrain. Indian forces have a significant presence in the region, with approximately 500,000 troops stationed in Kashmir to counter a decades-long insurgency.

Unlike past elections, which were often boycotted by separatist groups demanding independence or a merger with Pakistan, voter turnout is expected to be higher. Election campaigns have included open debates, but key decisions, such as security and the appointment of the region’s governor, will remain in the hands of the Indian government. New Delhi will also retain the power to override any legislation passed by the 90-seat assembly.

The final round of voting is set for October 2, with results expected six days later. The elections come amid ongoing violence in the region, including some of the deadliest clashes this year in Jammu, where Prime Minister Modi campaigned over the weekend, declaring that “terrorism is on its last legs.”

The changes in 2019 that revoked Kashmir’s special status were accompanied by mass arrests and a communications blackout, further deepening tensions in the region. (ILKHA)