Voting has commenced in the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, marking the first such electoral exercise in the Union Territory in a decade. This phase covers 24 constituencies across seven districts, with polling scheduled to continue until 6 PM today. This election is significant as it is the first Assembly election since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which previously granted the state special status and was followed by its reorganization into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
In total, over 23 lakh voters are eligible to cast their ballots for 219 candidates, including 90 independents. The current phase encompasses eight Assembly segments in three districts of the Jammu region and 16 segments in four districts of the Kashmir Valley. Polling for the remaining 66 Assembly seats will occur in subsequent phases on September 25 and October 1, with vote counting scheduled for October 8.
Early voting figures indicate a turnout of approximately 11.1% by 9 AM. Specific district turnouts include 10.26% in Anantnag, 12.90% in Doda, 14.83% in Kishtwar, 10.77% in Kulgam, 9.18% in Pulwama, 11.91% in Ramban, and 11.44% in Shopian.
Among the key candidates in this phase, Congress leader Vikar Rasool Wani, who is contesting from the Banihal seat, has expressed confidence in securing his position for a third consecutive term. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has urged voters to participate in record numbers, emphasizing the importance of democratic engagement.
National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah has warned voters about the potential fragmentation of their votes due to a high number of independent candidates, particularly in the Kashmir Valley. He hopes voters will support the NC-Congress alliance to avoid vote splitting.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has called on all eligible voters, particularly first-time voters, to take part in this crucial election. He highlighted the opportunity for voters to influence the future direction of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the importance of each vote in shaping a new era of development and statehood.
The ongoing elections have already seen some dramatic developments. Jose Luiz Datena, a candidate in a separate high-profile incident, faced backlash for a violent outburst during a live debate, underlining the tense political atmosphere in the region.
This assembly election not only signifies a major political shift for Jammu and Kashmir but also serves as a critical test of the democratic processes in the newly designated Union Territory.
