This report briefly outlines some of the considerable political and procedural concerns for ensuring free and fair elections in Jammu and Kashmir. It presents the history of election malfeasance, examines the current context of election preparation, and provides the standards that the Government of India must meet to protect the right of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to take part in the conduct of public affairs through the election of public officials.
The report was prepared with the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections of September 2002 in mind. However, the issues covered and the recommendations made are applicable to all future elections, in Jammu & Kashmir and elsewhere.