Vohra express hope that people will take part in polls

Srinagar, Nov 5 (UNI) Expressing the hope that people will take part in the democratic exercise in the state in a big way, Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra said efforts have been made to ensure a conducive atmosphere for free movement of candidates contesting seven-phase polls from November 17.

Interacting with the officers of the National Defence College, here last evening, the Governor said the stage is all set for having a democratic government in place.

Indicating that there is no alternative to the people's government, Mr Vohra expressed the hope that the people will take part in the democratic exercise in a big way.

He said efforts have been made to ensure that the contestants and the political parties can move freely for campaigning in a secure atmosphere.

For ensuring free and fair elections, he said, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has deployed 'Observers across the length and breadth of the State.

The Governor observed that despite disturbances and four wars during the past six decades, Jammu and Kashmir has made enviable progress on all the fronts.

There has been rapid growth in social sectors like health and education, the hydel potential of the State is being harnessed for the benefit of the people and the developmental scenario is showing signs of forward movement.

Referring to the expansion of higher education, he observed that there were no less than seven universities in the State which were engaged in providing higher and professional learning to a large number of youngsters.

''Vision of Kashmir is inspiring,'' he said and added that the forward-looking people of the Valley have been yearning for peace and normalcy, as the disruption in their normal lives and economic activity have brought misery and disruption to the ethos of Kashmir.

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