Jammu & Kashmir: Voters are heading to the polls today for the second phase of Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, amid increased security measures aimed at ensuring a smooth electoral process.
Polling is taking place across 26 constituencies, with notable candidates including former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. A total of 238 candidates are vying for votes, among them approximately 170 independent contenders.
The political landscape is competitive, with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) fielding 26 candidates, followed by the National Conference with 20, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with 17, and the Congress party nominating six candidates.
This election is particularly significant as it marks the first since the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status following the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A in August 2019. The first phase of voting on September 18 saw an impressive turnout of 60.21%.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to participate in the democratic process, stating, “Today is the second phase of voting for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. I appeal to all voters to cast their votes and play their important role in strengthening democracy. I congratulate all the young friends who are voting for the first time!”
Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also called on voters to make their voices heard. In a post on social media platform X, he said, “My brothers and sisters of Jammu and Kashmir, today is the second phase of voting. Come out in large numbers and vote for your rights and prosperity—vote for INDIA. By snatching away your statehood, the BJP government has insulted you and played with your constitutional rights. Your every vote for INDIA will break this vicious circle of injustice created by the BJP and bring Jammu and Kashmir on the path of prosperity.”
The third phase of polling is scheduled for October 1, continuing the electoral process in the region after a decade-long hiatus.