J&K Assembly Elections 2024: Peaceful Polling, 61% Voter Turnout Recorded, Says EC

Tarun Chugh, BJP's J&K in-charge and National General Secretary, praised the enthusiasm of Jammu and Kashmir residents during Prime Minister Modi's visits, noting large crowds and extensive preparations. He commended the visible efforts in Srinagar, reflecting Modi's commitment to the region's development. Commenting on the first phase of elections, Chugh described the high voter turnout as a testament to Modi's vision and the restoration of trust in India's democracy, contrasting it with past election boycotts.

After casting his vote, BJP candidate Rakesh Thakur from the Ramban constituency highlighted the significant development in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. He expressed confidence that the BJP will form the government, emphasizing that their campaign focused on these development works.

After casting his vote, Ghulam Mohi Uddin Mir, the National Conference candidate from Rajpora, noted the high enthusiasm among voters, with many turning out in large numbers. He urged the public to continue voting to ensure their concerns are heard by electing a strong representative.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered an FIR against unidentified National Conference workers after an alleged attack on Sugra Barkati and her supporters in the Beerwah area of Budgam district. According to KDC, Police Station Beerwah registered FIR No. 109/2024 under Sections 126(2) and 351(2) of BNS, naming unknown NC workers in the case.

Sakina Itoo, the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference candidate from Damhal Hanjipora, expressed optimism, stating that the public is turning out in large numbers to vote. She is hopeful that voters will elect her, given the positive response her campaign has received.

Javaid Ahmad Qadri, the BJP candidate from Shopian, credited Prime Minister Modi for improving the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to a large voter turnout. He highlighted the central government's efforts in developing Shopian and noted that before the abrogation of Article 370, only select families voted, but now the common people are participating in significant numbers.

According to the Election Commission of India, Jammu and Kashmir recorded a voter turnout of 26.72% by 11 AM in the first phase of Assembly elections. The turnout percentages across districts were: Anantnag 25.55%, Doda 32.30%, Kishtwar 32.69%, Kulgam 25.95%, Pulwama 20.37%, Ramban 31.25%, and Shopian 25.96%.

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi encouraged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to participate actively in the first phase of polling. He called on them to cast their votes in favor of the INDIA bloc, highlighting the importance of exercising their democratic rights.

Kashmiri migrant voters are casting their votes under high security in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir.

Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo, the JKNC candidate for the Kishtwar seat, says that people in Jammu and Kashmir are eager to vote for a government they believe will address their issues effectively. They are looking to choose a strong administration that can meet their needs.

Jammu and Kashmir 1st Phase Assembly Elections: Election Commission Reports 11.11% Voter Turnout by 9 AM

In the Jammu and Kashmir Elections 2024, Kashmiri Pandits are actively participating by casting their votes at the migrant camps in Jagti, South Kashmir.

BJP leader Altaf Thakur reported that voters in Srinagar are highly enthusiastic, with long lines forming since early morning. He highlighted that Kashmir is moving away from violence and embracing democracy through voting. Thakur noted that people are expressing their support for Indian democracy and PM Modi's vision of a 'New Jammu and Kashmir.'

In Jammu and Kashmir, the District Administration of Kulgam has established an election control room to oversee the voting process and ensure smooth operations in the district.