Enthusiastic voters filled polling booths across 26 Assembly segments in Jammu & Kashmir on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, recording a voter turnout of over 56% by 7 p.m., as per the Election Commission of India (EC). The high turnout reflected the growing political engagement in the region, especially in areas near the Line of Control (LoC), despite ongoing security concerns.
“There has not been any incident that necessitates a repoll. With 3,502 polling stations in operation, not a single booth reported a single-digit voting percentage. In fact, Srinagar’s voter turnout exceeded the Lok Sabha figures by over 5%,” stated J&K Chief Electoral Officer P.K. Pole.
According to EC data, Reasi district recorded the highest turnout at 74.14%, followed by Poonch (73.78%) and Rajouri (69.85%). Other districts such as Budgam (61.31%) and Ganderbal (62.63%) also saw significant participation, while Srinagar’s turnout marginally increased to 29.24%, compared to 27% in the 2014 Assembly election. “These elections mark a historic shift, as regions that once saw fear and boycott are now embracing democracy,” remarked Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.
In districts close to the LoC, such as Rajouri, Poonch, and Reasi, long queues were seen at polling stations, with voters like Nitu Mia from Reasi expressing pride in voting to protect the country’s interests. In Kashmir Valley, Budgam and Ganderbal witnessed long lines, though voter response in parts of Srinagar remained subdued. The elections also highlighted local issues, such as dissatisfaction with smart meter installations, ration reductions, and job shortages, which drove voter turnout. “The lower-middle class is being crushed by the current regime’s policies,” said Nazima Ganai, a voter from Eidgah.
