<p>The Israeli military on Tuesday (Oct 1) began a "localised and targeted" ground operation in Lebanon days after it killed Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah.&nbsp;The operation, codenamed "Northern Arrows" will&nbsp;continue according to the situational assessment and in parallel to combat in Gaza and other areas.</p>

<p>The Indian Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) is seeing the final phase of voting on Tuesday. At the time of writing the Morning Brief, a voter turnout of&nbsp;11.60 per cent was recorded till 9 am.</p>

<p>In other news from around the world, three rockets were fired at a base housing US troops at&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;International Airport in Iraq on Tuesday. It, however, did not cause any casualties.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-begins-localised-and-targeted-ground-operation-in-lebanon-days-after-hezbollah-chiefs-death-763329"><strong>Israel begins 'localised and targeted' ground operation in Lebanon, days after Hezbollah chief's death</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/07/453516-screenshot-2024-09-07-224712.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday (Oct 1) announced it had begun "limited, localised, and targeted ground raids" against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, days after annihilating the entire chain of command of the militant outfit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-assembly-election-2024-phase-3-poll-live-voting-updates-pdp-vs-bjp-vs-nc-vs-inc-eci-news-763334"><strong>LIVE | J&amp;K Elections Phase 3: Polling underway in third and last phase of polls</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/13/454575-ncppdpelectioncommissionmunicipalpanchayat.jpeg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Voting started in the third phase of the assembly polls in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir early on Tuesday (Oct 1).&nbsp;Areas like Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, Kathua and Udhampur close to the LoC and international border will also see polling amid tight security.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rockets-fired-at-us-military-base-in-baghdad-amid-israeli-ground-raids-in-lebanon-763339"><strong>Rockets fired at US military base in Baghdad amid Israeli ground raids in Lebanon</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/05/19/195472-5.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Three rockets were fired at a base housing US troops at&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;International Airport in Iraq on Tuesday (Oct 1), causing no casualties. It, however did not cause any casualties, two security sources told AFP.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-in-indias-up-orders-iphone-kills-delivery-agent-upon-receiving-it-heres-what-happened-763364"><strong>Man in India's UP orders iPhone, kills delivery agent upon receiving it. Here's what happened</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/01/457683-untitled-1.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>A man in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh ordered an iPhone online and killed the delivery agent upon receiving it. Citing the police, a report by the news agency PTI on Tuesday (Oct 1) said that the man, who hailed from Lucknow, committed the crime along with an accomplice.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | World DNA: 'Fiery protest' outside Albanian Parliament</strong></p>

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The Israeli military on Tuesday (Oct 1) began a "localised and targeted" ground operation in Lebanon days after it killed Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah.

The Israeli military on Tuesday (Oct 1) began a "localised and targeted" ground operation in Lebanon days after it killed Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah. The operation, codenamed "Northern Arrows" will continue according to the situational assessment and in parallel to combat in Gaza and other areas. The Indian Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) is seeing the final phase of voting on Tuesday. At the time of writing the Morning Brief, a voter turnout of 11.60 per cent was recorded till 9 am. In other news from around the world, three rockets were fired at a base housing US troops at Baghdad International Airport in Iraq on Tuesday. It, however, did not cause any casualties. Click on the headlines to read more: Israel begins 'localised and targeted' ground operation in Lebanon, days after Hezbollah chief's death The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday (Oct 1) announced it had begun "limited, localised, and targeted ground raids" against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, days after annihilating the entire chain of command of the militant outfit. LIVE | J&K Elections Phase 3: Polling underway in third and last phase of polls Voting started in the third phase of the assembly polls in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir early on Tuesday (Oct 1). Areas like Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, Kathua and Udhampur close to the LoC and international border will also see polling amid tight security. Rockets fired at US military base in Baghdad amid Israeli ground raids in Lebanon Three rockets were fired at a base housing US troops at Baghdad International Airport in Iraq on Tuesday (Oct 1), causing no casualties. It, however did not cause any casualties, two security sources told AFP. Man in India's UP orders iPhone, kills delivery agent upon receiving it. Here's what happened A man in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh ordered an iPhone online and killed the delivery agent upon receiving it. Citing the police, a report by the news agency PTI on Tuesday (Oct 1) said that the man, who hailed from Lucknow, committed the crime along with an accomplice. Watch | World DNA: 'Fiery protest' outside Albanian Parliament ×

Morning brief: Israel begins ground operation in Lebanon; final phase of voting in India's J-K, and more

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<p>A war of words has broken out between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India and the opposition Congress party. The reason- a remark made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>On Sunday, Kharge felt unwell while addressing a public meeting in Jammu and Kashmir's (J-K) Jasrota. The Union Territory (UT) is currently witnessing elections with the third and final phase of voting on Tuesday. The results of the elections will be declared on October 8.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Kharge say?</strong></h2>

<p>During the public meeting in Jasrota on Sunday, Kharge&nbsp;vowed to fight for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, asserting he would remain active in politics until Prime Minister Modi was ousted from power.</p>

<p>Kharge’s remarks came amid criticism of the BJP-led government at the Centre for its handling of the Valley, particularly regarding the delay of elections.</p>

<p>“We will fight to restore statehood. We are not going to leave it. I am 83 years old, I am not going to die so early. I will stay alive until PM Modi is removed from power. I will listen to you. I will fight for you,” the Congress president said&nbsp;after he was provided medical assistance.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congress President Sri <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kharge</a> felt slightly unwell while addressing a public meeting in Jasrota, Jammu &amp; Kashmir.<br />
<br />
He has been checked upon by his medical team and apart from slightly low blood pressure, he is doing well.<br />
Extremely grateful for everyone's concern.<br />
<br />
His…</p>
— Priyank Kharge / ಪ್ರಿಯಾಂಕ್ ಖರ್ಗೆ (@PriyankKharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/PriyankKharge/status/1840329728219033669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kharge further alleged that the BJP was running J-K through a remote control.&nbsp;“These people never wanted to conduct elections. They only started preparing for elections after the Supreme Court’s order,”&nbsp; he said.</p>

<p>Condemning Modi's governance, Kharge said, "Modiji is shedding crocodile tears for the future of the youth in Jammu and Kashmir.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also accused the BJP&nbsp;of failing to restore statehood despite having the authority to do so and criticised the ruling party for allowing outsiders to dominate critical sectors such as mining and liquor contracts.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-amit-shah-slams-congress-for-pakistan-zindabad-slogans-at-rallies-vows-to-straighten-waqf-board-law-762972">BJP's Amit Shah slams Congress for 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogans at rallies; vows to ‘straighten’ Waqf Board law</a></p>

<h2><strong>Amit Shah reacts to Kharge's remark on Modi</strong></h2>

<p>In a post on X, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reacted to Kharge's remarks on Modi. "Yesterday, the Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge Ji has outperformed himself, his leaders and his party in being absolutely distasteful and disgraceful in his speech," Union Home Minister Shah said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yesterday, the Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge Ji has outperformed himself, his leaders and his party in being absolutely distasteful and disgraceful in his speech.<br />
<br />
In a bitter display of spite, he unnecessarily dragged PM Modi into his personal health matters by…</p>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1840605156255097124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"In a bitter display of spite, he unnecessarily dragged PM Modi into his personal health matters by saying that he would die only after removing PM Modi from power.&nbsp;It just shows how much hate and fear these Congress people have of PM Modi, that they are thinking of him constantly," Shah added.</p>

<p>He also pointed out that as for the health of Kharge, "Modi Ji prays, I pray and we all pray that he lives a long, healthy life. May he continue to live for many years and may he live to see the creation of a Viksit Bharat by 2047."</p>

<p>Echoing Shah's remarks, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, "The leadership of Congress never loses any opportunity to display their hate towards PM Modi. This speech of Mallikarjun Kharge is one such instance. We join in praying for the long life of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. We wish he lives to see Viksit Bharat 2047."</p>

<h2><strong>Congress hits back at Shah: Don't hate Modi but...</strong></h2>

<p>Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera reacted to Amit Shah's post on X. Speaking to the news agency ANI, Khera said, "When will BJP understand that Congress does not hate PM Modi but loves the country? That's why we want the nation to be free from PM Modi and his ideology. Around 67% of the country also wants the same who did not vote in favour of him..."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | Over party President Mallikarjun Kharge's remark on PM Modi in a rally and Union Home Miniter's reaction on it, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh says, "...Kharge ji will return to election campaigning after he fell slightly ill...The Home Minister should focus on… <a href="https://t.co/v8HW8j4Bp1">pic.twitter.com/v8HW8j4Bp1</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1840639296996618558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that Shah should focus on his work and also on the state of Manipur.</p>

<p>"It is in Rahul Gandhi's blood to sacrifice his life for the country. Amit Shah should tell us why the farmers in India are in debt. Why is the Swaminathan Report not being implemented?...," Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari told the news agency.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A war of words has broken out between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India and the opposition Congress party. The reason- a remark made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A war of words has broken out between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India and the opposition Congress party. The reason- a remark made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Sunday, Kharge felt unwell while addressing a public meeting in Jammu and Kashmir's (J-K) Jasrota. The Union Territory (UT) is currently witnessing elections with the third and final phase of voting on Tuesday. The results of the elections will be declared on October 8. What did Kharge say? During the public meeting in Jasrota on Sunday, Kharge vowed to fight for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, asserting he would remain active in politics until Prime Minister Modi was ousted from power. Kharge’s remarks came amid criticism of the BJP-led government at the Centre for its handling of the Valley, particularly regarding the delay of elections. “We will fight to restore statehood. We are not going to leave it. I am 83 years old, I am not going to die so early. I will stay alive until PM Modi is removed from power. I will listen to you. I will fight for you,” the Congress president said after he was provided medical assistance. Congress President Sri @kharge felt slightly unwell while addressing a public meeting in Jasrota, Jammu & Kashmir. He has been checked upon by his medical team and apart from slightly low blood pressure, he is doing well. Extremely grateful for everyone's concern. His… — Priyank Kharge / ಪ್ರಿಯಾಂಕ್ ಖರ್ಗೆ (@PriyankKharge) September 29, 2024 × Kharge further alleged that the BJP was running J-K through a remote control. “These people never wanted to conduct elections. They only started preparing for elections after the Supreme Court’s order,” he said. Condemning Modi's governance, Kharge said, "Modiji is shedding crocodile tears for the future of the youth in Jammu and Kashmir.” He also accused the BJP of failing to restore statehood despite having the authority to do so and criticised the ruling party for allowing outsiders to dominate critical sectors such as mining and liquor contracts. Also read: BJP's Amit Shah slams Congress for 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogans at rallies; vows to ‘straighten’ Waqf Board law Amit Shah reacts to Kharge's remark on Modi In a post on X, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reacted to Kharge's remarks on Modi. "Yesterday, the Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge Ji has outperformed himself, his leaders and his party in being absolutely distasteful and disgraceful in his speech," Union Home Minister Shah said. Yesterday, the Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge Ji has outperformed himself, his leaders and his party in being absolutely distasteful and disgraceful in his speech. In a bitter display of spite, he unnecessarily dragged PM Modi into his personal health matters by… — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) September 30, 2024 × "In a bitter display of spite, he unnecessarily dragged PM Modi into his personal health matters by saying that he would die only after removing PM Modi from power. It just shows how much hate and fear these Congress people have of PM Modi, that they are thinking of him constantly," Shah added. He also pointed out that as for the health of Kharge, "Modi Ji prays, I pray and we all pray that he lives a long, healthy life. May he continue to live for many years and may he live to see the creation of a Viksit Bharat by 2047." Echoing Shah's remarks, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, "The leadership of Congress never loses any opportunity to display their hate towards PM Modi. This speech of Mallikarjun Kharge is one such instance. We join in praying for the long life of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. We wish he lives to see Viksit Bharat 2047." Congress hits back at Shah: Don't hate Modi but... Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera reacted to Amit Shah's post on X. Speaking to the news agency ANI, Khera said, "When will BJP understand that Congress does not hate PM Modi but loves the country? That's why we want the nation to be free from PM Modi and his ideology. Around 67% of the country also wants the same who did not vote in favour of him..." #WATCH | Delhi | Over party President Mallikarjun Kharge's remark on PM Modi in a rally and Union Home Miniter's reaction on it, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh says, "...Kharge ji will return to election campaigning after he fell slightly ill...The Home Minister should focus on… pic.twitter.com/v8HW8j4Bp1 — ANI (@ANI) September 30, 2024 × Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that Shah should focus on his work and also on the state of Manipur. "It is in Rahul Gandhi's blood to sacrifice his life for the country. Amit Shah should tell us why the farmers in India are in debt. Why is the Swaminathan Report not being implemented?...," Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari told the news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

War of words between BJP and Congress over Kharge's 'will stay alive until Indian PM Modi is ousted' remark

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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sep&nbsp;19) addressed a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar, a day after the Union Territory (UT) voted in the first phase of the assembly elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the rally, Prime Minister Modi targeted the&nbsp;three political families- the Abdullahs (who lead the National Conference), the Muftis (who belong to People's Democratic Party), and the Gandhis - by saying they brought only fear and anarchy to the Valley. Modi said that Jammu and Kashmir would no longer remain under their control as the local youth were not challenging them.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-assembly-polls-phase-1-voter-turnout-stands-at-59-no-violence-reported-759926">Jammu-Kashmir assembly polls phase 1: Voter turnout stands at 59%, no violence reported</a></strong></p>

<p>"The three families think that it is their birthright to capture power by any means and then loot you all. Their political agenda has been to deprive the people of Jammu and Kashmir of their legitimate rights," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>BJP bridging gap between ‘Dil’ and Delhi: Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Modi criticised the National Conference (NC), the People's Democratic Party (PDP), and the Congress&nbsp;for creating divisions and asserted that the BJP is uniting everyone and bridging the gap between 'Dil' (the heart) and Delhi.</p>

<p>"The three families here consider the politics of Jammu and Kashmir as their fiefdom. They do not want to let anyone else come forward except their own family. Otherwise, why did they stop the elections of the panchayat, BDC and DDC?" he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Srinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "In the last 35 years, Kashmir remained closed for almost 3000 days, which means 8 years out of 35 years were spent in shutdown. Whereas in the last 5 years, Kashmir did not remain closed for even 8 hours. They want schools… <a href="https://t.co/DJxMbFxIaW">pic.twitter.com/DJxMbFxIaW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1836677705666040131?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Modi also accused the Abdullahs, the Muftis, and the Gandhis of being partners&nbsp;in every oppression committed against the Kashmiri Hindus and Sikhs in the valley.</p>

<p>"If the BJP government is formed here, then instead of Rs 6,000, Rs 10,000 will be deposited in the bank accounts of everyone every year. Rs 18,000 will be deposited every year in the bank account of the oldest woman of every family," the prime minister further said.</p>

<h2><strong>Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir</strong></h2>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir is voting for its 90-member assembly in three phases.</p>

<p>The first phase of voting was held on Wednesday (Sep 18), and the other two rounds will be held on September 25 and October 1. The counting of votes and declaration of results&nbsp;will take place on October 8.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sep 19) addressed a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar, a day after the Union Territory (UT) voted in the first phase of the assembly elections.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sep 19) addressed a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar, a day after the Union Territory (UT) voted in the first phase of the assembly elections. Addressing the rally, Prime Minister Modi targeted the three political families- the Abdullahs (who lead the National Conference), the Muftis (who belong to People's Democratic Party), and the Gandhis - by saying they brought only fear and anarchy to the Valley. Modi said that Jammu and Kashmir would no longer remain under their control as the local youth were not challenging them. Also read | Jammu-Kashmir assembly polls phase 1: Voter turnout stands at 59%, no violence reported "The three families think that it is their birthright to capture power by any means and then loot you all. Their political agenda has been to deprive the people of Jammu and Kashmir of their legitimate rights," he said. BJP bridging gap between ‘Dil’ and Delhi: Modi Modi criticised the National Conference (NC), the People's Democratic Party (PDP), and the Congress for creating divisions and asserted that the BJP is uniting everyone and bridging the gap between 'Dil' (the heart) and Delhi. "The three families here consider the politics of Jammu and Kashmir as their fiefdom. They do not want to let anyone else come forward except their own family. Otherwise, why did they stop the elections of the panchayat, BDC and DDC?" he added. #WATCH | Srinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "In the last 35 years, Kashmir remained closed for almost 3000 days, which means 8 years out of 35 years were spent in shutdown. Whereas in the last 5 years, Kashmir did not remain closed for even 8 hours. They want schools… pic.twitter.com/DJxMbFxIaW — ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2024 × Modi also accused the Abdullahs, the Muftis, and the Gandhis of being partners in every oppression committed against the Kashmiri Hindus and Sikhs in the valley. "If the BJP government is formed here, then instead of Rs 6,000, Rs 10,000 will be deposited in the bank accounts of everyone every year. Rs 18,000 will be deposited every year in the bank account of the oldest woman of every family," the prime minister further said. Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir Jammu and Kashmir is voting for its 90-member assembly in three phases. The first phase of voting was held on Wednesday (Sep 18), and the other two rounds will be held on September 25 and October 1. The counting of votes and declaration of results will take place on October 8.

Modi rally in J-K: Indian PM says ‘three families’ gave only fear, anarchy to Valley

In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the first phase of Assembly elections is set to take place on 18th of September. Watch to know more.

Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections: Valley's fringe parties form an alliance

<p>Jammu and Kashmir is headed for the assembly elections after 10 long years. The first phase of the election will be held on September 18, and security remains one of the major concerns for security agencies. And as Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said, this assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir will decide the fate of the Union Territory.</p>

<p>As many as 219 candidates are in the fray during the first phase during which&nbsp;polling will be held in 24 Assembly constituencies.</p>

<p>With less than 48 hours remaining for the casting of votes, 64 candidates remain in electoral fray in Anantnag district, followed by 45 in Pulwama, 27 in Doda, 25 in Kulgam, 22 in Kishtwar, 21 in Shopian, and 15 in Ramban.<br />
<br />
In Kishtwar, 9 candidates remain in the final electoral fray&nbsp;for election in 48-Inderwal AC; 7 candidates in 49-Kishtwar AC; while 6 candidates remain in the fray in 50-Padder-Nagseni AC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Doda district, 10 candidates remain in the final electoral fray for election in 51-Bhadarwah AC; 9 candidates in 52-Doda AC; and 8 candidates in 53-Doda West AC. In Ramban district, 8 candidates remain in the final electoral fray for election in 54-Ramban AC; while 7 candidates will contest in 55-Banihal AC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, in Pulwama district, 14 candidates remain in the final fray in 32-Pampore AC; 9 candidates in 33-Tral AC; 12 candidates in 34-Pulwama AC; and 10 candidates in 35-Rajpora AC.</p>

<p>In Shopian district, 10 candidates remain in the final electoral fray in 36-Zainapora AC and 11 candidates will contest in 37-Shopian AC. In Kulgam district, 6 candidates remain in the final fray in 38-DH Pora AC; 10 candidates in 39-Kulgam AC; and 9 candidates in 40-Devsar AC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finally, in Anantnag district, 10 candidates remain in the&nbsp;electoral fray in 41-Dooru AC; 10 candidates in 42-Kokernag (ST) AC; 9 candidates in 43-Anantnag West AC; 13 candidates in 44-Anantnag AC; 3 candidates in 45-Srigufwara-Bijbehara AC; 13 candidates in 46-Shangus-Anantnag East AC; and 6 candidates in 47-Pahalgam AC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 23.27 lakh voters, including 5.66 lakh youths, are eligible to exercise their electoral franchise during Phase-I, out of which 11.76 lakh are male voters, 11.51 lakh are females, and&nbsp;60 third gender electors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a three-tier security system has been put in place across the Union Territory for&nbsp; guarding every polling booth. There are special polling booths with extra security in areas close to the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''As 18th is the date for the first phase of elections and area pertinently belonging to South Kashmir. We have made quite elaborate arrangements, and have included the paramilitary forces. Area domination is done too so that fair elections can be held in a secure environment. We have made certain multilayered arrangements at strong rooms and distribution centres. Such arrangements will remain the same for the second and third phases as well. Technology comes in handy and acts as a force multiplier, and it really helps in making the environment&nbsp;safe,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;V K Birdi, IG Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 300 companies of paramilitary forces have been brought in from across India&nbsp;for election security. This is in addition to the Jammu and Kashmir Police and&nbsp;the CRPF present in the Valley.&nbsp;</p>


Jammu and Kashmir is headed for the assembly elections after 10 long years. The first phase of the election will be held on September 18, and security remains one of the major concerns for security agencies.

Jammu and Kashmir is headed for the assembly elections after 10 long years. The first phase of the election will be held on September 18, and security remains one of the major concerns for security agencies. And as Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said, this assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir will decide the fate of the Union Territory. As many as 219 candidates are in the fray during the first phase during which polling will be held in 24 Assembly constituencies. With less than 48 hours remaining for the casting of votes, 64 candidates remain in electoral fray in Anantnag district, followed by 45 in Pulwama, 27 in Doda, 25 in Kulgam, 22 in Kishtwar, 21 in Shopian, and 15 in Ramban. In Kishtwar, 9 candidates remain in the final electoral fray for election in 48-Inderwal AC; 7 candidates in 49-Kishtwar AC; while 6 candidates remain in the fray in 50-Padder-Nagseni AC. In Doda district, 10 candidates remain in the final electoral fray for election in 51-Bhadarwah AC; 9 candidates in 52-Doda AC; and 8 candidates in 53-Doda West AC. In Ramban district, 8 candidates remain in the final electoral fray for election in 54-Ramban AC; while 7 candidates will contest in 55-Banihal AC. Similarly, in Pulwama district, 14 candidates remain in the final fray in 32-Pampore AC; 9 candidates in 33-Tral AC; 12 candidates in 34-Pulwama AC; and 10 candidates in 35-Rajpora AC. In Shopian district, 10 candidates remain in the final electoral fray in 36-Zainapora AC and 11 candidates will contest in 37-Shopian AC. In Kulgam district, 6 candidates remain in the final fray in 38-DH Pora AC; 10 candidates in 39-Kulgam AC; and 9 candidates in 40-Devsar AC. Finally, in Anantnag district, 10 candidates remain in the electoral fray in 41-Dooru AC; 10 candidates in 42-Kokernag (ST) AC; 9 candidates in 43-Anantnag West AC; 13 candidates in 44-Anantnag AC; 3 candidates in 45-Srigufwara-Bijbehara AC; 13 candidates in 46-Shangus-Anantnag East AC; and 6 candidates in 47-Pahalgam AC. More than 23.27 lakh voters, including 5.66 lakh youths, are eligible to exercise their electoral franchise during Phase-I, out of which 11.76 lakh are male voters, 11.51 lakh are females, and 60 third gender electors. Meanwhile, a three-tier security system has been put in place across the Union Territory for guarding every polling booth. There are special polling booths with extra security in areas close to the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border. ''As 18th is the date for the first phase of elections and area pertinently belonging to South Kashmir. We have made quite elaborate arrangements, and have included the paramilitary forces. Area domination is done too so that fair elections can be held in a secure environment. We have made certain multilayered arrangements at strong rooms and distribution centres. Such arrangements will remain the same for the second and third phases as well. Technology comes in handy and acts as a force multiplier, and it really helps in making the environment safe," said V K Birdi, IG Kashmir. Around 300 companies of paramilitary forces have been brought in from across India for election security. This is in addition to the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the CRPF present in the Valley.

Jammu and Kashmir heads for first phase of assembly elections on Sept 18, security beefed across UT

<p>Over a hundred candidates from various political parties and Independents filed nominations on Tuesday in various districts for the first phase of assembly elections in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The National Conference, Congress, PDP, and BJP leaders were seen carrying huge rallies towards the nomination centres.</p>

<p>Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah accompanied senior leader of National Conference Altaf Kaloo as he filed his nomination for the upcoming assembly election from Pahalgam constituency. Hundreds of people rallied behind the leaders as they walked towards the RO's office. JKNC President Dr Farooq Abdullah joined senior leader Hasnain Masoodi as he officially filed his nomination for the Pampore constituency.</p>

<p>The National Conference also released the second list of candidates, which included party vice president Omar Abdullah. Omar will be fighting from the Ganderbal constituency.</p>

<p>"Today is the last day to file nominations for the first phase. We have given our manifesto and roadmap. We have decided on a seat-sharing agreement with Congress. We aim to fight against the BJP like a consolidated front. Those who could not get the ticket due to the pre-poll alliance from our party will be adjusted in future,'' said Omar Abdullah.</p>

<p>PDP President Mehbooba Mufti accompanied her daughter Iltija Mufti, who filed her nomination from the Bijbehara Constituency. Iltija will be fighting the election&nbsp;for the first time while Mehbooba Mufti is likely to stay away and not contest herself.</p>

<p>''This is a big honour for me that I have been asked to file papers for the Bijbehara Constituency. This is the constituency where Veeri Saab has done phenomenal work in his four terms that he has been chosen and Mehbooba Ji also started her career from here and today is a very emotional day for me and I am very honoured. It was a very emotional moment for me, and I was missing Mufti Saab a lot,'' said Iltija Mufti.</p>

<p>In a big development, the former Jamaat Islami members have also started filing their nominations. Jamaat Islami was banned by the Home Ministry but now its former members have started coming into mainstream to fight assembly elections. In South Kashmir's Kulgam District, Nazir Ahmad Bhat, a former member of Jamaat-e-Islami, filed his nomination for the Devsar Assembly constituency.</p>

<p>''There was a lot of injustice here. Last year, my two nephews were arrested, and despite seeking help from many leaders, no one helped. At that time, I decided to serve the people. There was fear of rigging in the parliamentary elections, but it didn’t happen, which gave me the courage to contest. That was the time I decided to fight, and I will make sure to win. I was associated with Jamaat because I used to attend their functions,'' said Nazir Ahmad Bhat.</p>

<p>However, Omar Abdullah took a dig at Jamaat and said that till now contesting elections was “haram” for the JeI, but now it's “halal”. “If they are willing to contest polls it's a welcome step. We wanted them to contest on their own symbol, but that didn’t happen due to its ban,” he added.</p>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir is going to polls in three phases starting on September 18. The counting will be on October 4.</p>


Over a hundred candidates from various political parties and Independents filed nominations on Tuesday in various districts for the first phase of assembly elections in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Over a hundred candidates from various political parties and Independents filed nominations on Tuesday in various districts for the first phase of assembly elections in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The National Conference, Congress, PDP, and BJP leaders were seen carrying huge rallies towards the nomination centres. Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah accompanied senior leader of National Conference Altaf Kaloo as he filed his nomination for the upcoming assembly election from Pahalgam constituency. Hundreds of people rallied behind the leaders as they walked towards the RO's office. JKNC President Dr Farooq Abdullah joined senior leader Hasnain Masoodi as he officially filed his nomination for the Pampore constituency. The National Conference also released the second list of candidates, which included party vice president Omar Abdullah. Omar will be fighting from the Ganderbal constituency. "Today is the last day to file nominations for the first phase. We have given our manifesto and roadmap. We have decided on a seat-sharing agreement with Congress. We aim to fight against the BJP like a consolidated front. Those who could not get the ticket due to the pre-poll alliance from our party will be adjusted in future,'' said Omar Abdullah. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti accompanied her daughter Iltija Mufti, who filed her nomination from the Bijbehara Constituency. Iltija will be fighting the election for the first time while Mehbooba Mufti is likely to stay away and not contest herself. ''This is a big honour for me that I have been asked to file papers for the Bijbehara Constituency. This is the constituency where Veeri Saab has done phenomenal work in his four terms that he has been chosen and Mehbooba Ji also started her career from here and today is a very emotional day for me and I am very honoured. It was a very emotional moment for me, and I was missing Mufti Saab a lot,'' said Iltija Mufti. In a big development, the former Jamaat Islami members have also started filing their nominations. Jamaat Islami was banned by the Home Ministry but now its former members have started coming into mainstream to fight assembly elections. In South Kashmir's Kulgam District, Nazir Ahmad Bhat, a former member of Jamaat-e-Islami, filed his nomination for the Devsar Assembly constituency. ''There was a lot of injustice here. Last year, my two nephews were arrested, and despite seeking help from many leaders, no one helped. At that time, I decided to serve the people. There was fear of rigging in the parliamentary elections, but it didn’t happen, which gave me the courage to contest. That was the time I decided to fight, and I will make sure to win. I was associated with Jamaat because I used to attend their functions,'' said Nazir Ahmad Bhat. However, Omar Abdullah took a dig at Jamaat and said that till now contesting elections was “haram” for the JeI, but now it's “halal”. “If they are willing to contest polls it's a welcome step. We wanted them to contest on their own symbol, but that didn’t happen due to its ban,” he added. Jammu and Kashmir is going to polls in three phases starting on September 18. The counting will be on October 4.

Over hundred file nominations for J&K polls on last day; former members of banned Jamaat Islami in race

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Over hundred file nominations for J&K polls on last day; former members of banned Jamaat Islami in race