Campaigning Intensifies Ahead of Kashmir's Second Phase of Elections

SRINAGAR, KASHMIR, INDIA - SEPTEMBER 22: Omar Abdullah, leader of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), rides a jet ski in Dal Lake during an election campaign rally, ahead of the second phase of voting in the assembly elections on 22 September 2024, in Srinagar, Indian administered Kashmir, India. As the second phase of assembly elections approaches, political activity is ramping up in Jammu and Kashmir. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah led a shikara rally with 200 boats on Srinagar's Dal Lake to energize voters. This election, the first since the region lost its semi-autonomous status in 2019, will fill 90 legislative seats and is a key moment for local governance in the disputed territory. Heightened security and voter turnout remain crucial factors. (Photo by Yawar Nazir/Getty Images)