Under high alert for attacks by separatist militants, dozens of police and paramilitaries carrying machine guns surrounded each voting station while the army kept up street patrols. Observers said only small numbers braved the security, coronavirus fears and snow-covered terrain to elect members of their local councils. Voting is to be held over eight days up to December 19 with the count to start three days later. While the local councils have only limited powers, several Kashmir political parties, including the influential National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party have formed an alliance to campaign for the restoration of the region's political autonomy. Rebel groups have been fighting Indian forces since 1989 in an uprising that has left tens of thousands dead, mainly civilians.

Source: Dhaka Tribune November 28, 2020 09:11 UTC