Jammu and Kashmir Sees Over 56% Voter Turnout in Peaceful Second Phase Polls

The second phase of polling for 26 seats in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections concluded with a turnout of 56.05% on Wednesday. The process was largely peaceful with minor incidents, and notable for the presence of foreign envoys. Former CM Omar Abdullah criticized the involvement of international observers.

Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a robust voter turnout of 56.05% in the second phase of its assembly elections on Wednesday, covering 26 seats. The polling was conducted smoothly and peacefully, according to officials.

Chief Electoral Officer P K Pole confirmed the participation rate during a press conference, though he noted that the percentage might change slightly as voting was still underway in places like Hazratbal and Reasi.

This phase also marked the unprecedented presence of a 16-member delegation of foreign envoys, a first since the insurgency began. This move, however, was met with criticism from former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who asserted that the elections are an internal matter of India.

(With inputs from agencies.)