Since the last election 10 years ago, we were left at the mercy of God, Tariq Ahmed, 40, told the AFP news agency. No one asked us about our problems. I am happy this election is happening. I hope we get our own representative with whom poor people like myself can raise everyday issues.
India's main opposition Congress party has allied with a prominent regional group. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which oversaw the 2019 changes to the territory's governance says they have delivered a new era of peace and rapid economic growth claims that the regional parties vehemently dispute.
Polling stations opened at 7am (01:30 GMT), authorities said. Turnout is expected to be high, unlike in past elections when separatists opposing Indian rule and demanding independence or a merger with neighbouring Pakistan boycotted polls.
A high unemployment rate and anger at the 2019 changes have animated campaigning. Regional parties have promised to fight for the restoration of autonomy.
[
Collection
]
[
|
...
]