Triumphant Turnout in Jammu & Kashmir: Democracy Prevails

The Election Commission of India applauds Jammu & Kashmir for successful Assembly elections, marking a significant win for democracy. Increased voter participation and the peaceful process contrast past challenges, setting a progressive path for the region. The Congress-NC alliance secures the government formation.

The Election Commission of India has extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Jammu and Kashmir following the successful conclusion of the recent Assembly elections. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar praised the peaceful and participative electoral process, describing it as a triumph of democracy over despair, emphasizing the unwavering resilience and resolve of the region's citizens. "Through their votes, the people have not only fortified the pillars of democracy but have also brightened the trajectory of progress for the region," Kumar stated, urging continued civic engagement in the democratic journey.

On September 30, Kumar observed that key indicators such as voter turnout, candidate participation, and the scale of electoral activities, including processions and campaigning, had seen sizeable improvement compared to previous elections. He highlighted the absence of boycotts or the necessity for re-polling in the final two phases as a historic achievement. The election saw the Congress-National Conference alliance win the mandate, securing 49 out of 90 Assembly seats, with preparations underway to form the government. Of these seats, 42 were claimed by the National Conference, 6 by the Indian National Congress, and 1 by the Communist Party of India (Marxist).

The elections, staged after a decade-long hiatus, unfolded over three phases—on September 18, September 25, and October 1. This marked the first Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, a move that led to the bifurcation of the former state into the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. This milestone election signifies a beacon of hope and a pivotal moment in the region's contemporary political landscape. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)