Srinagar: Minister of State for External Affairs and National Conference (NC)
president Omar Abdullah has said that issuing photo-identity cards could delay the
conduct of polls in Jammu and Kashmir or lead to its postponement.
"The issue of photo-identity cards is a time-consuming process that could lead to
delay in the conduct of polls or postponement of elections, which are due in
October," Omar said at a public meeting at Seri in Bhaderwah on July 14.
He questioned the viability of the process of issuing the cards saying, "Nobody is
willing to forego a days work to get the card made."
"People in the state are generally poor and they cannot afford to pay for the cards,
which will cost at least Rs 100 each," he said and suggested that the Election
Commission bear the expenses.
"Considering the security situation in the state, it would be enough if people come
out to vote. We cannot put additional burden on them," he added.
The NC president claimed Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah had approached the Election
Commission five years ago to begin issuing identity cards but no action was taken.
"Why has the Commission suddenly woken up and made the cards compulsory?" Omar
asked.
PTI
