Marks deepening of democracy: CEC
Srinagar: With the polling for the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections concluded today in a peaceful and celebratory atmosphere, CEC Rajiv Kumar stated that this election marks a significant deepening of democracy.
The Election Commission of India (ECI), in a handout issued, noted that the scenes of voters patiently waiting in lines at polling stations, set against the scenic backdrop of the region, highlighted the people’s strong faith in democracy.
“The festive mood and enthusiastic participation were evident across all districts that went to polls in the three-phased elections, underscoring a renewed spirit of civic participation and hope for a new era, with people deciding their own future,” ECI said.
CEC Rajiv Kumar, along with ECs Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, fulfilled their promise of ensuring a democratic resurgence in Jammu & Kashmir. Rajiv Kumar dedicated these elections to the people of J&K, acknowledging their determination and belief in the democratic process.
CEC Rajiv Kumar said: “J&K Assembly elections have marked a significant deepening of democracy which will echo in the pages of history and continue to inspire a democratic spirit of the region for years to come. He dedicated these elections to the people of J&K acknowledging their determination and belief in the democratic process. The peaceful and participative elections are historic, wherein democracy is taking root more profoundly than ever before, driven by the will of people of J&K”.
As of 7 PM, voter turnout was recorded as follows: Bandipora at 64.85%, Baramulla at 55.73%, Jammu at 66.79%, Kathua at 70.53%, Kupwara at 62.76%, Samba at 72.41%, and Udhampur at 72.91%. The overall voter turnout across the 40 Assembly Constituencies in these districts stood at 65.58%, which was later update to 68% (tentative).
In Phase 3, polling took place across 40 Assembly Constituencies in 7 districts, at 5,060 polling stations. A total of 415 candidates, including 387 men and 28 women, contested. The counting of votes is scheduled for October 8, 2024.
The elections represented a resounding statement in favor of democracy, aligning with CEC Rajiv Kumar’s confidence expressed during the announcement of the General Elections in J&K on August 16, 2024. At that time, he remarked, “In Jammu-Kashmir, the world will witness the defeat of nefarious and inimical interests and the triumph of democracy.”
Voting in the third and final phase commenced at 7 AM today and was conducted peacefully, with no incidents of violence reported. The meticulous planning and vigilance by the Election Commission ensured smooth and streamlined elections in J&K, with no repolls recorded. Despite the increase in the number of ACs from 83 in 2014 to 90 in 2024, the elections were completed in 3 phases, compared to 5 phases in 2014. Unlike in 2014, when 170 election-related incidents were reported, no major law-and-order incidents occurred this time.
The role of money and muscle power was significantly curtailed, with coordinated efforts resulting in seizures worth ₹130 crore—the highest ever in J&K election history. Security was strengthened across all 90 ACs, with webcasting in place at 100% of polling stations, compared to 20% in 2014.
There was a notable increase of approximately 23% in the electorate, with a 27.90% rise in female electors, marking the growing vibrancy of the electorate. First-time voters proudly displayed their inked fingers, embodying aspirations for peace and democracy. Additionally, the number of contesting candidates rose by 7% from 2014, while independent candidates saw a 26% increase.
For the first time in J&K’s history, 9 seats were reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST), leading to a more inclusive election. Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs) showed a 71% increase in participation.
Voter turnout significantly increased in areas previously known for boycotts. Pulwama AC saw a 12.97% increase, while Zainapora and Eidgah ACs recorded increases of 9.52% and 9.16%, respectively.
Polling stations were set up in remote locations, including 469 near the Line of Control (LOC) and International Border, ensuring that voters in sensitive areas could participate. Polling stations near the LOC in Rajouri district recorded an 84% turnout, highlighting increased voter participation in these regions.
Special polling stations were established for Kashmiri migrants, with 21,395 migrant voters casting their votes. Additionally, home voting was introduced for the first time, allowing 3,381 elderly voters and 2,734 persons with disabilities (PwD) to cast their votes from home.
The Election Commission ensured Assured Minimum Facilities (AMFs), such as water, electricity, ramps, and wheelchairs, at polling stations. Polling stations exclusively managed by women and PwDs were established in every AC.
Apps like Know Your Candidate (KYC) and the Voter Helpline were instrumental in providing voters with essential information, while the Saksham app enabled PwDs to access election services. The Voter Turnout App provided real-time updates on voter turnout.
Key candidates in this phase included Raman Bhalla (R S Pura), Usman Majeed (Bandipora), Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurez), Taj Mohiuddin (Uri), Basharat Bukhari (Wagoora-Kreeri), Imran Ansari (Pattan), Ghulam Hassan Mir (Gulmarg), Choudhary Lal Singh (Basohli), Rajiv Jasrotia (Jasrota), Manohar Lal Sharma (Billawar), Sham Lal Sharma, and Ajay Kumar Sadhotra (Jammu North).
To facilitate voter participation, the Election Commission set up 5,060 polling stations and ensured 100% webcasting in all constituencies. Of the total, 974 are urban polling stations and 4,086 are rural. Special initiatives to boost participation included 240 special polling stations, 50 pink polling stations managed by women, and 43 polling stations operated by persons with disabilities.
Additionally, there are 45 green polling stations promoting environmental awareness, 29 polling stations located near the Line of Control and International Border for border residents, and 33 unique polling stations. For migrant voters from the Kashmir division, 24 special polling stations—19 in Jammu, four in Delhi, and one in Udhampur district—have been set up.
Assembly elections: J&K records 68% turnout in Phase-III
