By Sanjoy Majumder BBC News Online correspondent in Srinagar

Delhi may already be declaring the voting in Indian-controlled Kashmir's state elections an unqualified success, but the view from the streets is not so clear cut.

The Indian Government says turnout has been better than expected, indicating that Kashmiris are fed up of violence and want to give peace a chance.

However, in the state's summer capital, Srinagar, many disputed this version of events, suggesting apathy was widespread.

"Many of us did not vote at all. We boycotted the polls because it will not determine our future," said Sadiq, a shopkeeper in the city's busy Lal Chowk area.

"Only an election that considers whether Kashmir is to remain in India, join Pakistan or become independent can be considered a successful election."

Local politics

Others were equally indifferent.

Masood, a student at Kashmir University, said that Thursday's announcement of the results would change little.

The outcome is for the first time being debated and not taken as a foregone conclusion

Greater Kashmir newspaper editorial

"These elections are a game played by India in front of the world community. It is to satisfy their needs and compulsions, not ours."

But many Kashmiris did vote and they are hoping for a strong showing by parties opposed to the ruling National Conference.

"I think it is fair to say that there was some support for the elections in that people turned out in some areas," said Mansoor, a lawyer who did cast his ballot.

"And many are hoping that the ruling party of Farooq Abdullah and his son get unseated."

Some said the results would not be indicative of Kashmir's future but of its local politics.

Small opening

Many who voted said they did so to improve their day-to-day situation - more jobs, improved civic facilities and less corruption were some of their demands.

"People do want change - and they realise that they had a chance to influence some of the things that affect their daily lives," said one college teacher who refused to give his name.

Police are ''constantly on edge'' for suicide attacks

"But it is quite incorrect to suggest that this is a complete rejection of the basic Kashmiri demand - the right to determine their political future."

Nevertheless, there is a sense of anticipation that the elections may create a small political opening if the results go against the grain.

The Greater Kashmir daily newspaper said that already these elections looked different from previous polls.

"The expectations and apprehensions of the parties concerned are wildly varied,'' it said.

"The outcome is for the first time being debated and not taken as a foregone conclusion.''

Journalist Shujaat Bukhari said independent candidates could play a leading role in determining who formed the new government.

Already, 15 independent groups who contested the elections - including some former separatists - have announced that they have formed a united political front.

"This is a very significant development. And if they win more than 10 seats, they will be a major voice in Kashmiri politics," said Mr Bukhari.

Congress pledge

One man who is banking on that is the Kashmiri leader of the Congress Party, the only mainstream Indian party to have a significant political base in Kashmir.

Ghulam Nabi Azad is hoping to form an alliance with the help of independents and other parties opposed to the National Conference.

Thank God it's coming to an end and that it has been relatively peaceful

Police officer

"The Congress Party has the experience of resolving political disputes - we have done it in Punjab, Assam and Manipur," he said.

"We have a presence in Delhi and in Srinagar - and we are a known factor internationally. That should help us take the [peace] process forward.''

But whatever the outcome, one group of people is relieved that the elections are over.

They are members of the Indian security forces who have been deployed in large numbers to prevent attacks by militants.

"Thank God it's coming to an end and that it has been relatively peaceful," said a member of the Central Reserve Police Force, one of the special units deployed in Kashmir.

"We have been... constantly on edge, anticipating a fidayeen (suicide) attack. Now, hopefully, we'll go home soon."