Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections: Voting for the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections has begun, involving over 2.5 million voters across six districts. This phase sees 239 candidates competing for 26 seats, with prominent figures like former chief minister Omar Abdullah and BJP J&K chief Ravinder Raina in the spotlight. Election results are scheduled to be announced on October 8.
As of 9 AM, the voter turnout in the union territory was recorded at 24.10%. Srinagar saw a low turnout of just 11.67%, while Reasi had the highest turnout at 33.39%.
To ensure a smooth election process, tight security measures have been implemented, including a multi-layered security arrangement involving police, armed police, and central paramilitary forces.
A total of 3,502 polling stations have been set up, including special facilities such as 26 'pink polling stations' operated by women and 26 polling stations staffed by specially-abled individuals.
Key candidates in this phase include Omar Abdullah, who is contesting from Ganderbal and Budgam, and Ravinder Raina, who aims to retain his seat in Nowshera. In total, 93 candidates are competing from Srinagar district, followed by 46 from Budgam, 34 from Rajouri, 25 from Poonch, 21 from Ganderbal, and 20 from Reasi.
The constituencies in Srinagar include Hazratbal, Khanyar, Habbakadal, Lal Chowk, Channapora, Zadibal, Central Shalteng, and Eidgah. In Budgam district, the contested seats are Budgam, Beerwah, Khansahib, Chrar-I-Sharief, and Chadoora, while Ganderbal district has Kangan (ST) and Ganderbal as its constituencies.
The Jammu division will see polling in Gulabgarh (ST), Reasi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi (in Reasi district), Kalakote-Sunderbani, Nowshera, Rajouri (ST), Budhal (ST), Thannamandi (ST), Surankote (ST), Poonch Haveli, and Mendhar (ST).
The first phase of voting, which took place on September 18, saw over 61% of the electorate participating. The next phase of polling is set for October 1, concluding today at 6 PM.
Here’s a breakdown of the voter turnout by 9:30 AM across the six districts:
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