By Shayne R. Burnham
Impunity Watch Reporter, Asia
PAMPORE, India – Indian police forces opened fire and used teargas on hundreds of protesters during state elections in Indian Kashmir last Saturday. One demonstrator was killed and about 34 were injured during the anti-election protests.
Separatist leaders called upon hundreds to boycott voting. They believe that participation in the elections strengthen New Delhi’s hold over the dispute Muslim-majority region. Protesters were shouting, “We want freedom” while besieging police and throwing stones at them.
Despite protests, there has been a high turnout at the polls. In the first four hours of voting, more than 22 percent of the population has come out to vote.
“It is not a vote for Indian rule or against separatists. Voting is for development,” said Sajjad Ahmad, a fruit grower. “We want better roads, schools and hospitals.”
Ghulam Mohammed, a retired bank employee said, “I’m here to vote for a candidate who will work to build roads and schools in our town.” Moments before he was about to vote, he continued by saying, “This isn’t a vote against the separatists, nor is it for India. It’s to choose an honest local government.”
Authorities have deployed extra troops, erected barricades and warned residents to remain indoors.
In recent months, there have been huge pro-independence demonstrations in Kashmir which were met with security forces. In anticipation of the protests, separatist leaders were placed in jail or under house arrest.
The polling last Saturday was the fifth round of a seven stage process. The final polls occur on December 24th. Counting of the votes is set to take place on December 28th.
After the collapse of the state government over a Hindu-Muslim land dispute that triggered a series of massive anti-India demonstrations, Kashmir was put under the power of the Indian federal government in July.
Almost 50,000 people have died as a result of the uprising in Kashmir.
For more information, please see:
AFP – One Killed as Clashes Disrupt Indian Kashmir Voting – 13 December 2008
BBC News – Protester Shot as Kashmir Votes – 13 December 2008
Reuters – Police Fire Bullets Against Kashmir Protesters – 12 December 2008
