35 candidates out of the first phase of election race
35 candidates out of the first phase of election race…
During the scrutiny of nomination papers for the first phase of assembly elections in kashmir - SRINAGAR/JAMMU' target='_blank' title='jammu and kashmir-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">jammu and kashmir on wednesday, nomination papers of 35 candidates including jailed separatist Sarjan Barkati were rejected, leaving 244 candidates in the fray. Voting is to be held on 18 september on 24 seats in the first phase. Of these, 16 seats are in Pulwama, Kulgam, anantnag and Shopian districts of South kashmir and 8 seats are in Doda Kishtwar and Ramban districts in Chenab Valley region of Jammu region.
Nomination papers of 35 candidates rejected
A statement issued by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer said that scrutiny of nomination papers for 24 assembly constituencies was done on wednesday in the offices of the respective returning officers of all seven districts. During the scrutiny of nomination papers filed by 279 candidates, the candidature of 244 candidates was found valid as per the guidelines of the election Commission, while the nomination papers of 35 candidates were rejected as they were found invalid. The 35 candidates whose nominations were rejected include jailed separatist activist Sarjan Ahmad Wage alias Sarjan Barkati.
Barkati was arrested 8 years ago
Barkati's daughter Sugra filed her nomination as an independent candidate from Zainapora constituency in Shopian district on Tuesday. Barkati came into the limelight during the unrest following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in 2016. Barkati was first arrested eight years ago and a case was registered under the Public Safety Act. He has also been charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).