Historic Turnout in Jammu & Kashmir Elections
Voters in Jammu & Kashmir turned up in record numbers on Wednesday, making the region’s first assembly elections in a decade truly remarkable. Twenty-four constituencies out of the Union Territory’s 90 saw voters exercise their democratic right, a significant moment for an area previously plagued by terrorism and election boycotts.
Strong Voter Participation
The Election Commission reported that by 11:15 PM, 60.65% of voters had cast their ballots across 16 constituencies in Kashmir and eight in Jammu. This figure is expected to rise as the final tally comes in.
Chief Electoral Officer Pandurang K Pole credited the improved ground situation and the absence of security concerns for the surge in voter turnout. “People now realize that peace and development come through the ballot,” he said.
First Elections Since Special Status Repeal
These elections are the first since the revocation of Jammu & Kashmir’s special status five years ago. For many, this is a crucial step toward restoring statehood. Mansoor Ahmad, a government employee in Kulgam, reflected this sentiment, saying, “I used to boycott elections, but now I realize we need honest representatives who can both advocate for development and our voice in the assembly.”
Varied Turnout Across the Region
While Padder Nagseni in Kishtwar recorded the highest voter turnout at 80.67%, Tral in Pulwama saw the lowest at 43.21%. Historically, Jammu & Kashmir saw its highest overall turnout at 75% back in 1987.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged voters to come out in large numbers, especially young and first-time voters. “Strengthen the festival of democracy,” he urged.
Competitive Contest
In total, 219 candidates are competing in this phase, including 90 independents. The election features the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a Congress-National Conference alliance, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Local parties like the People’s Conference and the Apni Party also have a presence.
Hopes for a Better Future
Iltija Mufti, daughter of PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, was encouraged by the participation of women in the polls. “It brings me great joy to see women of all ages voting,” she said. Communist Party leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami also expressed hope that the elections would address the long-standing challenges of the people.
As the elections progress, issues like statehood restoration, Article 370’s abrogation, and development concerns remain central themes.
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