Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections Key Points
- The second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections began today after a 10-year gap.
- 26 seats across six districts, many in separatist-dominated areas, are up for polling.
- 26 lakh voters will decide the fate of 239 candidates, including key figures like Omar Abdullah and BJP’s Ravinder Raina.
- Turnout in separatist-affected areas is expected to be a key indicator of public faith in the democratic process.
- Voting for the third phase will take place on October 1, with counting set for October 8.
The second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, held after a decade-long hiatus, commenced on Wednesday, covering 26 seats across six districts, many of which are in regions known for their separatist influence. This phase saw around 26 lakh voters determining the outcome for 239 candidates contesting the elections.
Key Districts and Seats
The polling includes significant constituencies such as Kangan (ST), Ganderbal, Hazratbal, Khanyar, and Lal Chowk in the central Kashmir region, historically seen as separatist strongholds. Other notable districts include Budgam, Rajouri, and Poonch, with several constituencies reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST).
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Among those facing electoral tests are former Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, who contested from Ganderbal and Budgam. The elections also featured prominent figures like Jammu and Kashmir BJP chief Ravinder Raina from the Nowshera seat, and Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hamid Karra from the Central-Shalteng constituency.
Voting Figures and Democratic Sentiment
The voter turnout figures today will be a critical measure of how much faith has been restored in the democratic process over the past five years, especially in areas where separatist influence has traditionally dampened participation. The first phase of elections, held on September 18, recorded a turnout of 61.13%, though slightly lower than the record 66% turnout in the 2014 elections.
Polling on Wednesday was conducted in regions where separatist sentiment remains prevalent, particularly around Srinagar, including constituencies such as Khanyar, Zedbal, Lal Chowk, and Eidgah. Historically, voter turnout in these areas has been lower than in other parts of the region.
Till 11 am on Wednesday, the voter turnout stood at 24.10 percent. By the end of the day, the figure rose to 54.11 percent.
Upcoming Phases
Following today’s elections, the third phase of polling is scheduled for October 1. The counting of votes for all phases will take place on October 8, alongside the counting of votes in Haryana.
This phase marks a crucial point for Jammu and Kashmir as it re-engages with its electoral process, with hopes that high voter turnout will signal greater public trust in democratic governance after years of conflict and separatist activity.
