Srinagar/Jammu, Oct 1: The third and final phase of polling in Jammu and Kashmir saw an encouraging voter turnout, with 11.6% recorded within the first two hours on Tuesday. A large number of voters were seen arriving early, hinting at a potentially high overall turnout in the 40 constituencies up for election.
The first two phases of the J&K Assembly elections saw impressive voter participation, with nearly 62% turnout in the first phase and 58% in the second. The strong turnout in the third phase, particularly among women voters, suggests a trend of increasing voter engagement as the elections progress.
Polling is taking place at 5,060 stations across the 40 constituencies, as voters, greeted by bright autumn sunshine, exercised their democratic rights. In Kashmir, 1,842 polling stations, staffed by over 8,000 officials, were set up across Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora districts. In Jammu division, 3,218 stations were prepared in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, and Udhampur districts.
In colder regions like Baramulla and Kupwara, many voters were seen wearing woolens, while in the warmer areas of Jammu, Kathua, Samba, and Udhampur, summer clothing remained the norm.
Voters began forming lines early in areas like Pattan, Sangrama, Kreeri, Tangmarg, Kunzar, and Uri town. In Jammu division, many people wore traditional Dogri attire, adding a festive atmosphere in Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, and R.S. Pura.
In regions near the International Border in Samba, Kathua, and Jammu, voter enthusiasm was particularly high, with many exchanging greetings with security personnel at the polling stations. Special arrangements were also made for elderly and infirm voters to ensure they could participate in the election.
A total of 39.18 lakh voters are deciding the political future of 415 candidates in the third phase. Jammu district has 11 constituencies, Samba 3, Kathua 6, and Udhampur 4. Meanwhile, Baramulla and Kupwara districts have 16 seats.
The Election Commission has set up 5,030 polling stations for this phase, including special arrangements for Kashmiri migrant voters. Polling stations for these voters have been established in Jammu (11), Delhi (4), and Udhampur (1).
Security measures have been heightened, with officials reporting that personnel from CRPF and local police have been deployed to ensure the safety of polling stations and voters. Security forces secured key roads and areas around polling stations starting Monday, ensuring the safe movement of polling staff, observers, candidates, and voters.
Polling began at 7 a.m. and will continue until 6 p.m. The counting of votes is scheduled for October 8.
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