Historic Shift as Final Phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections Commences

Jammu and Kashmir enter the decisive final phase of Assembly elections today. Union Home Minister Amit Shah calls for a visionary government to secure peace and progress. Voters are urged to elect a government free from terrorism and corruption. Over 3.9 million voters are eligible in 40 constituencies.

Jammu and Kashmir entered the decisive final phase of its Assembly elections today. Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the need for a government capable of taking strong actions to ensure the region's security, peace, and stability. 'Jammu and Kashmir requires a visionary government that can also make strong decisions for the security, peace, and stability of the region,' Shah stated in a post on X.

'As the public casts their votes in the final phase, they should elect a government that keeps Jammu and Kashmir free from terrorism, separatism, nepotism, and corruption,' he added. The polling started at 7 AM across 40 constituencies, 24 in Jammu and the remainder in the Kashmir valley.

The Election Commission reports that over 3.9 million voters are eligible to vote in this phase, which will continue until 6 PM under robust security measures. At least 415 candidates, including former deputy chief ministers Tara Chand (Congress) and Muzaffar Hussain Beig, are competing. This election marks a significant political event as the first in a decade and since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019.

This multi-party contest includes notable alliances and campaigns from major political figures. Early voter turnouts were 61% and 57.31%. Votes will be counted on October 8.