Historic Vote: West Pakistani Refugees Cast Ballots in J&K

West Pakistani refugees in Jammu and Kashmir celebrate their first voting opportunity post-Article 370 abrogation, terming it a gift from PM Narendra Modi. The final phase of polling is underway, with 415 candidates contesting. Results will be declared on October 8.

West Pakistani refugees in Jammu and Kashmir turned out in large numbers on Tuesday to cast their ballots, marking their first voting opportunity after gaining citizenship following the abrogation of Article 370. The community lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the right to vote a significant gift.

Scenes of celebration filled the air as refugees danced and expressed their gratitude for participating in the J&K assembly elections for the first time. In RS Pura, a resident told ANI, 'After 75 years, we finally have the chance to vote. There was no democracy for us before.'

Another refugee echoed the sentiment, saying, 'We've never voted before. This is our first vote since arriving in Jammu and Kashmir. It's a gift from PM Modi.' The community pledged to vote in large numbers to ensure their representative's victory. Over 415 candidates are contesting the third phase, with results expected on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)