Diplomats from 15 countries witness polling in Srinagar, Budgam; say they are impressed by the process

A high-level delegation of senior diplomats from various countries visited polling stations in Budgam and Srinagar on Wednesday to observe the polling process in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Ministry of External Affairs extended invitations to diplomats from approximately 15 nations, including the United States, Mexico, Guyana, South Korea, Somalia, Panama, Singapore, Nigeria, Spain, South Africa, Norway, Tanzania, Rwanda, Algeria, and the Philippines.

During their visit, the diplomats interacted with voters and local residents at the polling stations, gaining insights into the election process and the public’s participation.

Speaking to ANI, South African diplomat Lara Swart said, “I think we are from 15 countries. It is the first time that I am visiting Jammu and Kashmir. It is really a privilege to be invited by the Ministry of External Affairs to come and visit the polling stations.”

A diplomat from Rwanda said, “I think it’s really good. Well organised. We had a very good explanation on how things are going on….The organisation is smooth and we are told that it (voting) started at 7 am and will go on till 6 pm…They are expecting everyone to come in and vote…”

A diplomat from Norway said, “It’s very good. This is my first time in Srinagar. It’s very important to visit the different states and territories and of course talk to the people.”

Deo, a Tanzanian diplomat, was impressed by the level of public enthusiasm and the concept of “pink booths,” which are polling stations managed entirely by women to encourage female participation.

“What I see is that people are excited to vote and they are bringing children with them so that they can learn what the democratic process is…I have never seen this kind of practice before, this is my first time. So, it is so fine,” Deo said.

A diplomat from Singapore’s High Commission, Alice Cheng, highlighted the similarities between India’s electoral system and Singapore’s, saying, “The organization is very similar to Singapore, where government buildings are used to make polling accessible. I thank the Ministry of External Affairs for organising this trip for us to witness the process.”

Calling the polling process “very impressive”, Lim Sang Woo, Deputy Chief of Mission at the South Korean Embassy, said: ” It is wonderful to be amongst the people who are here to cast a vote. I see a vibrant enthusiasm and this is really democracy working. So, congratulations. It is well organised.”

Voting for the second phase of Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir began at 7 am on Wednesday. Over 25 lakh eligible voters will seal the fate of 239 candidates across 26 constituencies in six districts of the Union Territory. In this phase, 25,78,099 lakh voters are eligible to cast their ballot, comprising 13,12,730 lakh male voters, 12,65,316 lakh female voters and 53 third-gender voters. The last phase of polls will be held on October 1 and counting of votes will be held on October 8.