Heavy Indian Troops Deployment in IIOJK Ahead of 6th Phase of Elections

Ahead of the sixth phase of the parliamentary elections on May 25, the Indian government has significantly increased troops deployment in the Rajouri and Poonch districts of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Nearly 200 additional companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed, creating an atmosphere more reminiscent of a military operation than a democratic exercise.

According to the reports, the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Armed Police have been evenly distributed between Rajouri and Poonch, with each district set to receive around 100 companies. This influx of security personnel is meant to increase the already large presence of paramilitary forces and police in these areas.

Several of these companies have already reached their destinations, with the remainder expected to arrive by Wednesday night. These forces are being relocated from the Baramulla Parliamentary constituency, where polling for the fifth phase has recently concluded. The troops are actively conducting cordon and search operations in the Pir Panjal forests to ensure security ahead of the elections.

The deployment of additional forces will continue in the coming days, underscoring the tense and highly militarized environment in these districts. Rajouri and Poonch collectively encompass eight Assembly constituencies. Seven of these fall within the Islamabad-Poonch-Rajouri Parliamentary constituency, while one segment, Sunderbani-Kalakote, is part of the Jammu Lok Sabha seat. The heavy troop presence in these regions highlights the extraordinary security measures being taken for the upcoming elections.

This significant military buildup suggests a response to potential unrest or violence, reflecting the broader challenges of conducting elections in a disputed territory. The increased deployment does not aim to ensure a smooth electoral process rather making Kashmiris remain under consistent pressure. The heavy deployment of paramilitary forces in Rajouri and Poonch has raised concerns among local residents and observers. Many view the situation as indicative of the contentious nature of the elections in the region. The Indian government asserts that the enhanced security is necessary to prevent any disruptions, while critics argue that it further militarizes an already heavily contested area.

The situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir continues to be closely watched, as the deployment of additional forces may impact voter turnout and the overall electoral process. The heavy security presence could deter potential voters due to fear or intimidation, raising questions about the legitimacy and fairness of the elections under such conditions.