Srinagar, Mar 12(KNS): The Election Commission has initiated discussions with political parties in Jammu and Kashmir to assess readiness for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

They engaged with various parties including National Conference, PDP, BJP, CPI(M), Congress, and AAP.

The National Conference emphasized the importance of conducting assembly elections alongside the Lok Sabha polls.

PDP also advocated for simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections. Following these consultations, the Election Commission will review election preparedness with District Election Officers and police officials.

Later, they will meet with Jammu and Kashmir's chief electoral officer and police nodal officers. Similar interactions are scheduled for Jammu on Wednesday.

There's been a growing demand for simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections or immediate assembly polls after the general elections, notably from former chief ministers Farooq Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Secretary has also taken measures to ensure smooth conduct of the Lok Sabha polls.(KNS).