West Pakistan refugees to vote in J&K Assembly Elections post abrogation of article 370

Sep 21, 2024

Samba (J&K), September 21, (ANI): For the first time, West Pakistani refugees residing in Jammu and Kashmir will participate in the upcoming Assembly elections, scheduled after a 10-year hiatus. These refugees, displaced during the 1947 partition, have long been denied voting rights due to J&K's unique legal status under its former constitution. However, following the abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A, they have been granted the same rights as other Indian citizens, including the right to vote and own property. The refugees, now enthusiastic about their newfound rights, expressed excitement at being able to vote in the Assembly elections. One voter stated, "For the first time, we are getting the opportunity to choose our candidate, and we will elect someone who can address our problems and bring development to our community." For decades, the displaced people in J&K were deprived of basic rights such as property ownership and participation in elections due to the state's distinct laws. With the removal of special provisions in 2019, they have now started receiving land ownership rights, access to government jobs, and even central government relief funds. As they prepare to vote for the first time, the West Pakistani refugees are hopeful that this election will pave the way for resolving their long-standing issues.