Historic Turnout as J&K Votes After Decade-Long Wait

The first phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir commenced after a decade, witnessing a high voter turnout across Chenab valley and south Kashmir districts. Despite security concerns, residents turned out in large numbers to vote, aiming for a strong government to tackle ongoing issues.

Thousands of enthusiastic voters gathered at polling stations across the Chenab valley as the first phase of assembly elections commenced in Jammu and Kashmir after a decade-long gap. The elections, spanning over eight assembly seats, saw a robust turnout in Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban districts, along with south Kashmir's Anantnag, Pulwama, Kulgam, and Shopian districts. As security measures were heightened due to a recent surge in terror activities, polling began at 7 am across 1,328 stations.

Election authorities reported early voter turnout percentages with 14.83% in Kishtwar, 12.90% in Doda, and 11.91% in Ramban districts within the first two hours. Notable figures like former Congress president Vikar Rasool Wani and former ministers Sajjad Ahmad Kitchloo and Shagun Parihar participated early. Shagun Parihar, whose family has been targeted by terrorists, expressed the urgency of addressing security fears, asserting her desire to protect others from similar tragedies.

This election is the first in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization into Union Territories in 2019. With the second phase scheduled for September 25 and the final phase on October 1, followed by vote counting on October 8, the region is edging towards a crucial political milestone.

(With inputs from agencies.)