ECI Reports 57.03% Turnout in J&K Phase Second Elections, Poonch and Reasi Lead with 74%

SRINAGAR, Sept 25: The second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections recorded a voter turnout of 57.03% by 11:45 PM, according to the Election Commission of India (ECI). This marked a significant level of participation in a region historically affected by low turnout and boycotts, reflecting a positive shift in voter engagement and democratic processes.

The ECI, in its press release, detailed the voter turnout across the six districts involved in this phase. Budgam registered a turnout of 62.98%, Ganderbal recorded 62.51%, Poonch reported 73.80%, Rajouri reached 70.95%, Reasi saw 74.70%, and Srinagar recorded 29.81%. These figures reflect an overall strong participation, with some districts in Jammu, such as Poonch and Reasi, recording turnout rates above 70%. In contrast, Srinagar, the state capital, reported a lower turnout at just below 30%, but this still marks an improvement in a historically challenging electoral area.

The ECI emphasized that the data presented is an approximate trend based on real-time input from field officers. The final figures may vary slightly as they await complete data from all polling stations, and information from postal ballots is yet to be included. The figures are expected to be continually updated as more detailed reports from polling stations are fed into the system. Voter turnout data is available district-wise and constituency-wise through the ECI’s Voter Turnout App, ensuring transparency in the election process.

Polling for the second phase commenced at 7 AM on Wednesday and concluded at 6 PM. The process took place across the districts of Budgam, Ganderbal, Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, and Srinagar, with over 25.78 lakh eligible electors participating to determine the outcome for 239 candidates. Notable candidates included former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, contesting from both Budgam and Ganderbal constituencies, and Jammu and Kashmir Congress Chief Tariq Hamid Karra.

This second phase follows the initial round of assembly elections held on September 18, with the current round being closely monitored to ensure smooth and secure voting. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, maintained strict oversight of the polling process. Their goal was to ensure that the elections were conducted in a peaceful and incident-free manner, reflecting the commission’s commitment to maintaining order during these crucial elections.

Earlier in the day, CEC Rajiv Kumar addressed the media at Nirvachan Sadan, emphasizing the historical significance of these elections. Describing them as “history in the making,” he noted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, once subjected to fear and threats of electoral boycotts, were now embracing the democratic process. Referring to the elections as “Jashn-e-Jamhuriyat” or the celebration of democracy, Kumar highlighted how the turnout symbolizes a shift from fear to empowerment, with voters taking active roles in shaping the political future of their region.

The ECI’s proactive measures in ensuring the safety and transparency of the elections were evident in the robust security arrangements across the polling districts. Comprehensive security protocols were implemented to create a conducive environment for voters, allowing them to cast their votes without fear or intimidation. Webcasting was used extensively in polling stations to provide live visuals of the voting process, enhancing the transparency of the proceedings. CEC Kumar, while reviewing live footage from polling stations, commended voters for their patience and commitment, as long lines of citizens waited to cast their ballots.

The elections in some constituencies were particularly noteworthy, as they had faced threats of boycott from separatist elements in the past. Despite these challenges, the polling process proceeded smoothly, underscoring the success of the ECI’s efforts to provide a secure and encouraging environment for voters. Strong voter participation in these areas sends a powerful message about the people’s belief in the democratic process, even in regions where such participation has historically been threatened.

The voter turnout recorded in this second phase surpasses the figures reported in the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, further demonstrating the electorate’s increasing engagement with state-level democratic processes. This increase in turnout highlights the growing trust and confidence of the people in the electoral system, and their willingness to actively participate in the democratic process despite past hurdles.

The Election Commission’s release further stated that the final vote tally for each polling station would be officially recorded in Form 17C, which would be shared with polling agents at the close of polls. This ensures the accuracy and integrity of the vote-counting process.

As the second phase of the assembly elections draws to a close, the high turnout and peaceful conduct of the polls reflect a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir’s democratic development. The polling process, bolstered by strong security measures and transparent monitoring systems, serves as a model for future elections in the region. The continued engagement of voters, particularly in districts that have historically experienced low turnout, is a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in shaping their own political destiny.

As results from this phase are tallied, attention now turns to the subsequent phases of the election, with the anticipation that voter engagement will remain strong and the elections will continue to proceed smoothly. The ECI’s approach to ensuring security, transparency, and voter participation has set a positive tone for the remainder of the electoral process.

#JKElections2024 #VoterTurnout #JammuAndKashmir #DemocracyInAction #ElectionCommission #PollingPhase2 #BudgamElections #GanderbalVotes #PoonchVoterTurnout #RajouriPolls #ReasiVotes #SrinagarPolling #JashneJamhuriyat #VoteForDemocracy #ECIUpdates