On Wednesday, voters in Jammu and Kashmir cast their ballots under bright sunshine and a clear autumn sky, launching the first phase of the Assembly elections. Election officials opened polling stations across the region, kicking off a three-phase electoral process.
Security forces in the Pampore Assembly constituency and Koil polling stations of Pulwama district exchanged smiles with voters, setting a positive tone for the day. Voters in Anantnag, Kulgam, and Shopian districts arrived early, eager to make their voices heard in the long-awaited elections.
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Candidates and political parties vigorously campaigned, generating noticeable enthusiasm in the Banihal constituency of Ramban district and the Doda and Kishtwar districts in the Jammu division. Men comprised most morning voters, but officials expected women to join later, after completing household duties.
A total of 23.27 lakh voters across 24 Assembly constituencies will decide the fate of 219 candidates. Authorities have implemented extensive security arrangements to ensure a smooth electoral process. Given the robust campaigning, officials anticipate voter turnout may exceed the 58 percent recorded in the recent Lok Sabha elections.
