J&K Sees Historic Voter Turnout in 35 Years, Over 61% Participation in Phase One of Assembly Polls

J&K : Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a historic voter turnout in the first phase of assembly polls, recording over 61 percent—the highest in 35 years. This remarkable participation is seen as a strong endorsement of the democratic process in the region. The highest voter turnout was recorded in Kishtwar district at 80.14 percent, followed by Doda with 71.34 percent, and Ramban with 70.55 percent. In South Kashmir, turnout figures were equally encouraging, with 62.46 percent in Kulgam, 57.84 percent in Anantnag, 55.96 percent in Shopian, and 46.65 percent in Pulwama.

Voting was conducted peacefully across all 24 Assembly Constituencies, covering seven districts—Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Kishtwar, Anantnag, Ramban, and Doda. This high voter engagement is seen as a sign of the people’s growing faith in the electoral system, especially after years of conflict and political turbulence in the region. The Election Commission, in its assessment, lauded the enthusiastic participation of youth and women voters, underscoring that their presence at the polling booths is a positive indicator of deepening democratic engagement in J&K.

The large voter turnout is also viewed as a decisive response to calls for election boycotts and violence. The long queues at polling stations reflected the people’s trust in the electoral process. Webcasting was used in all polling stations to ensure transparency, and 32 Central Observers were deployed to oversee the smooth conduct of elections, ensuring there were no disruptions. Security arrangements were also stringent, contributing to the peaceful nature of the voting process.

In an effort to make the elections as inclusive as possible, Kashmiri migrant voters were enabled to exercise their franchise through 24 Special Polling Stations set up in Jammu, Udhampur, and Delhi. Moreover, for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir’s assembly elections, home-voting facilities were introduced, further enhancing voter accessibility, particularly for those with physical challenges.

This landmark voter turnout marks a significant moment for the region, reflecting a broad-based commitment to democratic processes and a renewed sense of political participation among the populace.