The first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections is currently in progress, marking the first such election since the abrogation of Article 370 and the first to take place in the region in 10 years. Polling is being held across 24 constituencies in seven districts, with over 23 lakh voters eligible to cast their ballots. This election is significant as it is the first under the Union Territory setup following the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.
Voter turnout in the initial hours has been encouraging, with 11.11% turnout recorded by 9:00 AM. Voters, including women and the elderly, lined up early at polling stations, with long queues observed before the polls opened at 7:00 AM.
Security arrangements are in place, ensuring smooth voting across the Pir Panjal region. The focus in this election is on issues like statehood restoration and development, with voters expressing hopes for a democratically elected government. Key candidates from various parties, including the National Conference, Congress, PDP, and BJP, are contesting in this phase. The second and third phases of voting will take place on September 25 and October 1, respectively, with results to be announced on October 8.
