J&K civic poll: Rs. 10 lakh cover for contestants

Proposal made by Governor
Facing a volatile situation, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik has proposed to offer insurance cover of Rs. 10 lakh to all candidates participating in the polls to the civic bodies and panchayats in the State. Meanwhile, the Congress and JD (U) on Wednesday decided to participate in the polls. Sources said Governor Malik discussed the insurance cover with senior officials of the State and gave his nod. However, the State Administrative Council is yet to issue any formal order. Around 33,400 panch and sarpanch seats will be filled through the polls.
Governor Malik, who chaired a meeting of deputy commissioners and superintendents of police in Srinagar, directed officers “to generate awareness among people about the importance of the upcoming elections.” Eleven grassroots representatives have been killed since the last elections in 2011. However, candidates seem not impressed by the move to provide insurance. “More than insurance cover, our demand is that the government should provide a secure atmosphere,” said JKPC chairman Shafiq Mir.
Source :  https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/jk-civic-poll-rs-10-lakh-cover-for-contestants/article24990293.ece