The Election Commission of India has invited applications for allotment of common symbols for registered unrecognised parties, paving way for the Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Commission has decided to accept applications seeking allotment of common symbol under Para 10B of the Election Symbols (Reservation & Allotment) Order, 1968 for the general election to the Legislative Assembly of Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir with immediate effect, reported Greater Kashmir quoting a report by Kashmir News Observer.

The EC's move now clearly shows that Assembly polls in the region are now imminent.

Late last year, the Supreme Court had directed the poll body to hold assembly polls by September 30, 2024.

Jammu and Kashmir voted in five Lok Sabha constituencies this year.