The decision to reschedule political activities in North Kashmir’s Sopore has ignited a political storm, with the National Conference (NC) alleging bias and obstruction from the Union Territory (UT) administration. The order, issued by Senior Superintendent of Police Divya D. on May 8, has rescheduled a car rally and a political rally involving NC leader and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
The rescheduling, which affects gatherings scheduled on May 9, May 10, and May 12, has drawn strong criticism from the NC. Party chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq has condemned the administration for allegedly hindering a level playing field for Abdullah in the Baramulla constituency.
The NC has urged the Election Commission to intervene, emphasizing the importance of providing equal political space to all parties. Sadiq stressed the need for fairness and transparency in the electoral process.
Sources familiar with the situation suggest that the rescheduling is linked to ongoing cordon and search operations in the region, following intelligence reports of foreign terrorists’ presence. However, the police order does not specify any specific reasons for the rescheduling.
The rescheduling directive also affects a People’s Conference rally, which was to be addressed by local party workers. Sajad Lone, the chief of a faction of the People’s Conference, is contesting from Baramulla.
The political turmoil in Sopore has raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process in Jammu and Kashmir. The NC’s allegations of bias and obstruction have cast a shadow over the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in the region.
