Sikh Committee to Field Candidates in J&K Elections

The All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) has announced plans to field independent Sikh candidates in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, emphasizing the need for Sikh representation in the legislative assembly following the abrogation of Article 370. APSCC Chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina highlighted the community's longstanding grievances and discrimination faced over the past 70 years from various political parties, including the NC, PDP, Congress, and BJP. The committee aims to contest 3-4 seats in areas with significant Sikh populations and has urged the majority Muslim community to support their candidates. Raina criticized the current reservation policy, which excludes Sikhs, and expressed hope for better representation through discussions with the Delimitation Commission. The APSCC's initiative is viewed as a response to previous neglect and a call for political accountability from parties that have historically utilized Sikh votes without addressing their needs. The final names of candidates and specific seats are expected to be announced soon.