ANANTNAG: The first phase of Jammu and Kashmir’s assembly elections, on September 18, saw a 58.85% voter turnout (recorded at 6 PM), the highest in seven recent elections. Voting occurred peacefully across 24 seats in seven districts, with only minor incidents reported.
An official handout of the Election Commission of India (ECI) said that there was 59 percent voting in the first phase of polling in J&K.
Former chief minister and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti’s daughter Iltija Mufti displaying a sign of victory after casting her vote in Srigufwara-Bijbehara assembly constituency, where she is contesting her maiden election in Kashmir in Phase 1 of polling of J&K Assembly elections on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. Photo/Open SourceKishtwar district recorded the highest participation at 77%, while Pulwama saw the lowest at 46%. Chief Electoral Officer P K Pole attributed the increased turnout to improved security, active political engagement, and effective campaigning.
These elections, for the 90-member assembly, are the first since the abrogation of Article 370, which had granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. In August 2019, the region was restructured, downgrading it into two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Polling booths across South Kashmir, previously known for being empty due to election boycotts, saw a remarkable transformation. Long queues of enthusiastic voters were seen as early as 7 A.M., encouraging others to join in.
Many of them were first-time voters who believed their votes would lead to peace, development, and a fearless future.
Rafiq Ahmad, a resident, explained why this election is different: “This is the first time we’ve come out to vote because our issues are not being addressed. We’ve become like a family without a head. That’s why we are here, to choose a candidate who will speak for us.”
Amir Sheikh, who had previously supported boycotts, reflected on the shift: “Boycotts haven’t brought any results in the past. Now, we realize that voting is the only way to make our candidate accountable for issues ranging from development to better living conditions.”
His village, Bugam in Kulgam, had long avoided the polls, but this time, residents eagerly waited for their turn to vote.
For many, including those in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s, casting their vote for the first time was driven by a desire for change. Abdul Kareem, shared, “Boycotting elections hasn’t helped us. We need to vote wisely for a candidate we can hold accountable tomorrow if our demands aren’t met.”
Arshid Reshi, a resident, highlighted the role of Jamaat-e-Islami in this election: “This time, Jamaat-e-Islami has put forward its candidates, which is why you’re seeing a large turnout in South Kashmir. Many of us are connected with the Jamaat, and their involvement has encouraged people to come out and vote. We trust them to represent our interests, and that’s why there’s such a strong presence at the polls this year,” he added.
As the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections approach, more people are getting involved, moving away from boycotts and focusing on shaping their future. These elections are seen as an opportunity for residents to choose leaders who can improve their quality of life and address long-standing issues in the region.
Rasik Khan from Pulwama echoed the sentiments of many, saying, “We’ve seen enough bloodshed. Now, we want to live in peace. We hope our vote will bring the change we need and rid us of the fear that has gripped our lives for so long. ”
“People are tired of living in constant fear and uncertainty. By participating in these elections, we believe we choose our leader and start a new chapter, where safety and stability become a reality for everyone,” he added.
Ashfaq Dar, like many young voters in Shopian, expressed a strong desire for change in this election. After years of political uncertainty, there is a growing demand for leadership that prioritizes the needs of the people. Many voters believe that while political parties may make similar promises, their goal is to choose someone who will genuinely represent their interests.
“This time, we want leaders who will listen to us and work for our welfare. In simple words, we know all political parties are the same, but we’re voting to choose our representative and push for the restoration of our statehood. We’ve stayed silent for too long,” Ashfaq Dar added.
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