J-K municipal polls to witness tough contest

The state of Jammu and Kashmir is expected to witness multi-cornered fights across 1145 awards in the municipal elections slated this month despite hindrances from separatists and two dominant state parties, the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), giving a boycott call.The elections are staggered in four phases -- October 8, 10, 13 and 16. Security in the state has beefed up for the elections.According to information pouring in, 85 to 90 per cent wards will witness a tough battle between the contestants of various parties and independent candidates due to heavy participation of candidates.The Congress party has pitted its candidates in majority wards. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) too is contesting on a large number of seats making inroads in the Valley. This municipal poll is likely to be a litmus test for the BJP as well as the Congress in the state as Independent candidates are likely to give a tough competition to both the national political ...