Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections: LG Urges Record Voter Turnout

The first phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir began with the LG urging voters, especially youth, women, and first-time voters, to participate in large numbers. As of 9 am, voter turnout was 11.11%. Voting will occur in three phases, with results expected on October 8.

The first phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir commenced on Wednesday, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha urging voters to turn out in record numbers. Through a post on X, Sinha particularly appealed to youth, women, and first-time voters to exercise their democratic rights.

'J&K Assembly elections commence today. I call upon all the voters whose assembly constituencies are voting in the first phase today to turn out in record numbers and exercise their democratic rights. I especially urge youth, women, and first-time voters to vote in large numbers,' stated the LG's office in the post. According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), voter turnout had reached 11.11% by 9 am.

District-wise, Kishtwar recorded a 14.83% turnout, Doda 12.90%, Ramban 11.91%, Shopian 11.44%, Kulgam 10.77%, Anantnag 10.26%, and Pulwama 9.18%. Doda District Election Officer Harvinder Singh commended the enthusiasm among voters, expressing hope for a high turnout. Kulgam District Administration set up an election control room to monitor the process, with Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir noting smooth operations and long queues at polling stations.

Polling, which began at 7 am under tight security, will conclude at 6 pm. The first phase covers 24 assembly constituencies, 16 in the Kashmir region and 8 in the Jammu region. The second and third phases are scheduled for September 25 and October 1, respectively. Vote counting will occur on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)