Respect wisdom of EC, simultaneous polls not possible in J-K: CEO

Amid criticism by political parties over the ECI's decision not to hold state polls with the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Shalinder Kumar Sunday said "we must respect the wisdom of the election commission" as simultaneous polls were not possible due to the prevailing security situation in the state.

He said the incident like February 14 Pulwama terror attack on a CRPF convoy has put the administration on alert and all necessary measures have been taken to ensure free and fair elections across the state including the border areas facing frequent ceasefire violations by Pakistan.

"We must respect the wisdom of the EC for whatever decision has been taken. It is decided, now so why and what may not be serving any purpose... Let us take it in a stride that single election has been announced and now let us conduct single election in a most free and fair manner," Kumar told reporters here this evening.

Asked if security atmosphere was the condition for not holding simultaneous elections, then how the EC going to conduct Lok Sabha polls, he said "having both the elections together means that you need more security for candidates."
On the challenge due to continuous shelling by Pakistan along the borders, he said "what is happening on the borders is not happening for the first time."
Kumar said the model code of conduct has came into force with the announcement of the polls and "we will ensure its implementation strictly."
On the steps to ensure maximum participation of the people in the democratic exercise, he said "we are going aggressively for two things - one is enrolment of new voters which is very encouraging this time and secondly the EC can only appeal to the voters to come out and vote. As per election law it is not mandatory for every voter to vote."