Jammu and Kashmir has recorded the highest voter turnout in the last 35 years, with over 61 percent polling in the first phase of assembly polls yesterday. Highest voter turnout 80.14 percent were recorded in district Kishtwar and 71.34 percent in district Doda. 70.55 percent voter turnout were recorded in district Ramban, 62.46 percent in Kulgam, 57.84 percent in Anantnag, 55.96 percent in Shopian and 46.65 percent in district Pulwama. Voting was peaceful across all 24 Assembly Constituencies spanning seven districts of Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Kishtwar, Anantnag, Ramban, and Doda.
The Election Commission noted that youth and women voters shone brightly at the polling stations, a testament to the deepening embrace of democracy in J&K. It added that their enthusiasm to cast their votes is an emphatic response in favor of the ballot against boycotts and violence. Long queues of voters at the polling stations showcased to the world the deep trust and confidence of the people of J&K in the democratic exercise. Along with webcasting in all polling stations, 32 Central Observers kept a vigilant eye on the election process on the ground, ensuring no disruptions. Kashmiri migrant voters were also empowered to exercise their franchise through 24 Special Polling Stations set up in Jammu, Udhampur, and Delhi. Home-voting facilities were introduced for the first time in assembly elections in J&K.
