Omar Abdullah Anticipates Higher Voter Turnout Amid Assembly Elections

NC Vice President Omar Abdullah expressed hopes for a higher voter turnout in the assembly elections, attributing the current situation partially to the central government's actions. He acknowledged the participation of voters in traditional strongholds and their support for the National Conference and Congress.

National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah voiced expectations of a higher voter turnout in the assembly elections on Thursday. 'I was hoping for a little more turnout. Because there was no call for a boycott. There were no attacks. There was no attempt to suppress and threaten the voters,' Abdullah said.

'But I think the central government is also partially responsible for this situation,' he added. 'They have tried to present high turnout as a sign of normalcy at different places.' Addressing the presence of diplomats in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah remarked, 'They brought the team of diplomats. They wanted to show that there was a big change in Srinagar. The people of Srinagar did not want to be used like this.'

Discussing voter turnout, Abdullah expressed gratitude to those who cast their votes. 'I am thankful to all those who voted for me. Whether they have voted for the National Conference, NOTA or other parties, I am thankful to them for voting,' he said. He further highlighted that the third phase of voting encompassed traditional strongholds in Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipur districts in the Kashmir valley, where a high turnout was expected.

Abdullah conveyed appreciation to the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their electoral participation. 'The most difficult time of the year is when votes come from these areas. This time too, we hope that voters will use their votes. There is a little bit of selfishness, but I hope that the votes will support the National Conference. Where there is no hope for the National Conference, people will then definitely vote for Congress,' he commented.

The final phase of elections in Jammu and Kashmir is set for October 1, with counting for JK and Haryana assemblies scheduled for October 8. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)