Today marks the commencement of polling in the Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency of Jammu and Kashmir, with 22 candidates, including former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, vying for electoral success. The electoral process began at 7 am, with citizens seen lining up outside polling stations in various areas of the constituency to exercise their franchise.
Spanning across 18 assembly segments in the districts of Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora, and Budgam, the constituency includes two segments newly added on the recommendations of the delimitation commission. Polling is slated to conclude at 6 pm.
Among the 17.37 lakh eligible voters, over 500 centenarians are expected to participate in the electoral process. Anticipating a robust turnout, political observers cite the significant turnout at election rallies and roadshows leading up to the polling day.
The electoral contest in Baramulla assumes particular significance as the first major political battle following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Notably, Omar Abdullah faces a formidable challenge from former separatist leader Sajad Lone, who heads the People’s Conference.
Furthermore, the participation of jailed Awami Ittehad Party leader, Engineer Rashid, adds intrigue to the electoral landscape. Other notable contenders include Mir Mohammad Fayaz from the People’s Democratic Party and Muneer Khan, contesting as an Independent.
In the 2019 elections, the constituency recorded a 34.17 per cent voter turnout, with Kupwara district registering the highest participation at 51.7 per cent. This year, the electorate comprises 8.75 lakh male, 8.62 lakh female, and 34 third-gender voters, along with over 17,000 persons with disabilities. Notably, there are 527 eligible voters above the age of 100, reflecting the diversity and inclusivity of the electoral process.
