Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, particularly its summer capital Srinagar, has been transformed into a virtual fortress today, as the first phase of elections gets underway.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Srinagar city has been declared a ‘red zone’ for drone operations, sparking concerns about restrictions on freedom of movement and assembly, which contradicts the Modi regime’s claims of a democratic exercise.

A heavy security blanket has been draped over the city, with Inspector General of Police VK Birdi confirming that adequate arrangements are in place. This includes deploying forces personnel along roads and setting up special checkpoints. Indian troops are conducting random checks on vehicles and intensifying surveillance, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.

The display of military might is more akin to a war zone than an election, leaving many to question the legitimacy of the process.

Meanwhile, Kashmiris are demanding their UN-pledged rights, calling the elections a ‘facade’ aimed at projecting a false sense of normalcy.