Jammu and Kashmir Election Sees 65.48% Turnout in Final Phase

The final phase of polling in Jammu and Kashmir recorded a 65.48% voter turnout. The election is significant as it is the first since the abrogation of Article 370. Major political figures campaigned extensively in the region, with results to be announced on October 8.

The third and final phase of polling in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir saw a voter turnout of 65.48 percent till 5 PM on Tuesday, according to the Election Commission of India. Udhampur registered the highest turnout with 72.91 percent, followed by Sambha with 72.41 percent, Kathua with 70.53 percent, Jammu with 66.79 percent, Bandipora with 63.33 percent, and Baramulla with 55.73 percent.

This election is particularly significant as it is the first in Jammu and Kashmir following the revocation of Article 370. Of the 40 constituencies, 24 are in the Jammu division and the remaining in the Kashmir Valley. A total of 415 candidates, including former Deputy Chief Ministers Tara Chand of Congress and Muzaffar Hussain Beig, are competing in this phase.

Prominent leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and former Chief Ministers Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah, and Mehbooba Mufti have been vigorously campaigning. The first phase on September 18 recorded a 61.13 percent turnout, while the second phase on September 25 saw 56.31 percent.

The West Pakistani refugee community is participating in the assembly elections for the first time after gaining citizenship following the abrogation of Article 370. The National Conference and the Congress have formed an alliance, with the People's Democratic Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party also being major contenders.

The vote counting will commence on October 8.