High Voter Turnout in Jammu and Kashmir's First Assembly Phase

A voter turnout of 41.17 per cent was recorded till 1 pm in the first phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls, with tight security arrangements. Maximum voting percentage in the Kashmir valley was recorded in Pahalgam at 47.68 per cent. The polls are being held for the first time since the abrogation of Article 370.

In a significant electoral event, 41.17 per cent voter turnout was recorded by 1 pm in the initial phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls on Wednesday, according to the Election Commission.

The polling commenced at 7 am under stringent security measures. Officials reported that the highest voting percentage amongst the 16 assembly segments in the Kashmir valley was observed in Pahalgam at 47.68 per cent, followed by D H Pora at 43.66 per cent, Dooru at 41.30 per cent, and Kokernag (ST) at 41 per cent. Tral recorded the lowest turnout at 26.75 per cent.

Overall, the Inderwal seat in the Jammu region saw the highest poll percentage with 60.01 per cent. This election is notable as it is the first being conducted since the abrogation of Article 370, covering 24 constituencies across seven districts in the Union Territory.

(With inputs from agencies.)