High Voter Turnout Marks First Phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections

The first phase of Jammu and Kashmir elections saw a 26.72% voter turnout by 11 am. Pulwama's Deputy Commissioner reported smooth voting and high enthusiasm among voters. Major polling stations noted long queues, and security was tight across 245 polling stations in Pulwama. Polling will continue until 6 pm.

The first phase of voting for Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections recorded a 26.72 percent voter turnout as of 11 am on Wednesday, according to the Election Commission of India (ECI). Kishtwar saw the highest turnout at 32.69 percent, followed by Doda at 32.20 percent, and Ramban at 31.25 percent. In South Kashmir, Shopian recorded 25.96 percent, Kulgam 25.95 percent, Anantnag 25.55 percent, and Pulwama 20.37 percent.

Polling commenced at 7 am and will conclude at 6 pm across the Union Territory. Speaking to ANI, Basharat Qayoom, Pulwama Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer, confirmed that the voting process is proceeding smoothly. "Polling is going on very smoothly in all 4 Assembly constituencies, and all our sector magistrates and zonal magistrates are in the field. I am also visiting the polling stations," Qayoom said. Major polling stations have been busy with long queues of voters since morning.

On security measures, Pulwama SSP PD Nitya stated, "Voting is underway in Pulwama district, which has two assembly constituencies and 245 polling stations. We are expecting good voter turnout, and proper security arrangements have been made." Talat Majid, an Independent candidate from Pulwama constituency backed by Jamaat-e-Islami, remarked, "I have cast my vote today...We want to resolve all our issues democratically. I appeal to people to participate in this process." PDP candidate Waheed Para emphasized the need to reclaim Pulwama's image and encouraged people to vote for peace, progress, and development.

A total of 24 assembly constituencies across the Union Territory are participating in the first phase, including 16 seats in the Kashmir region and 8 in the Jammu region. The second and third phases of voting are scheduled for September 25 and October 1, respectively, with vote counting on October 8.