In the first phase of Jammu and Kashmir’s assembly elections, a voter turnout exceeding 61 percent was recorded across 24 constituencies in seven districts, as per data released by the Election Commission. The turnout, which could rise further with postal ballots yet to be tallied, highlights active voter participation in a region that has faced several challenges in recent years. Kishtwar district led the voter turnout with an impressive 80.14 percent, followed by Doda at 71.34 percent, and Ramban with 70.55 percent.
This election marks the first assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, making it a significant political milestone. The last state assembly elections were held in 2014. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) P.K. Pole confirmed that polling was peaceful and free from any major incidents that could necessitate a repoll.
In the Kashmir valley, the highest voter participation came from Kulgam district, which recorded 62.46 percent. Other districts in South Kashmir, including Anantnag (57.84 percent), Shopian (55.96 percent), and Pulwama (46.65 percent), saw a steady voter turnout. Notably, Pahalgam in Anantnag district recorded the highest turnout at 71.26 percent.
The Chenab Valley region, comprising Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban districts, witnessed strong voter participation. In Kishtwar, the Inderwal constituency saw 82.16 percent of voters turning up, while in Doda district, the Doda West constituency registered 75.98 percent. These figures reflect a robust electoral engagement in these regions.
In Pulwama, traditionally known for lower voter turnouts, the Pulwama constituency saw 50.42 percent participation, while Rajpora, Pampore, and Tral recorded relatively lower figures, with 43 to 48 percent voter turnout.
The Election Commission was satisfied with the first phase’s success, expressing optimism for continued high voter participation in the remaining two phases on September 25 and October 1. The election body highlighted long queues at polling stations as a testament to the public’s trust in the democratic process. Over 2.3 million voters were eligible to cast their ballots, determining the fate of 219 candidates, including 90 independents.
Additionally, the election commission noted the participation of Kashmiri migrant voters, with 31.42 percent casting their votes across 24 special polling stations set up in Jammu, Udhampur, and Delhi. These early signs point to strong voter engagement across all regions, building on the momentum seen in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
