NEW DELHI – In the lead-up to local elections in Kashmir, a gunfight with suspected militants resulted in the deaths of two Indian soldiers and injuries to two others. The confrontation occurred on September 13 in Kishtwar district. The Indian army honored the soldiers, describing their deaths as a “supreme sacrifice” on social media.
The region, which has been a flashpoint of conflict between India and Pakistan since their independence in 1947, has experienced increased violence as local assembly polls approach—the first in a decade. The disputed territory, which has been under military control with around 500,000 troops deployed, has faced a 35-year insurgency that has claimed tens of thousands of lives.
Kashmir’s local government has been without elected representation since August 2019 when the Indian government revoked the region’s partial autonomy. The upcoming elections will see 8.7 million eligible voters cast their ballots starting September 18, with results expected in October.
In the midst of heightened security concerns, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anticipated to campaign in the southern Jammu region, which has a significant Hindu population. The ongoing conflict has seen over 50 soldiers killed in clashes in recent years, with India accusing Pakistan of supporting militants—allegations that Pakistan denies.