Former Army Chief General (retired) V.P. Malik on Wednesday suggested that the upcoming Assembly elections in Jammu Kashmir should be deferred for a year, rather than being conducted by September.
In an interview with a private TV news channel, General Malik emphasized that delaying the elections by a year is crucial, warning that the situation in Kashmir could escalate if militants achieve some successes in the Jammu region.
He remarked, “Don’t hasten into holding the elections in J&K by September. Focus on consolidating gains in Kashmir. A few terrorist successes in Jammu could incite further terrorism in the Valley. More important than Assembly Elections by September 2024 is ensuring the security of J&K. Postpone the elections by a year.”
Notably, the Jammu region has recently experienced four encounters and attacks within the last 96 hours, resulting in the deaths of two terrorists, one CRPF trooper, and nine civilians in Kathua and Reasi districts, with several others injured. Terrorist activities were reported in Pouni, Hiranagar, Chattergala, and Gandoh areas.