SRINAGAR: As Jammu and Kashmir gears up for its first of three-phase of polling in the Assembly elections on September 18, there is a flurry of activity across 24 constituencies in seven districts, where 219 candidates are in fray. With dispatch centres and polling stations fully operational, officials are ensuring that every detail is meticulously addressed to provide a seamless voting experience for the 23.27 lakh eligible voters.
The Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are set to be handed over to the polling parties, who will head to their respective polling stations today. “This is the dispatch day ahead of the voting, and we are fully prepared,” an election official stated, noting that each polling station is equipped with essential amenities such as drinking water, ramps, and wheelchairs to accommodate voters with disabilities.
To ensure the election runs smoothly and securely, extensive training has been provided to all polling staff, including zonal and sector magistrates, along with police officers. The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed across the districts to maintain law and order during polling.
The Model Code of Conduct is being strictly enforced, with political rallies and public meetings prohibited as the silence period began 48 hours before voting day. “We are expecting a huge voter turnout,” said another election official, emphasising the efforts made to encourage public participation.
The authorities have taken significant steps to ensure inclusivity, with a variety of special polling stations set up. “We have established pink polling stations manned by women officers, green stations managed by persons with disabilities, and unique booths in areas with a high tribal population,” said the official.
Outreach efforts have also been in full swing, with 100 per cent distribution of voter slips to eligible voters. Additionally, home voting was arranged for specially-abled and senior citizens, which saw a high level of participation. The election observers are continuously monitoring the process to ensure transparency and efficiency.
A total of 3,276 polling stations have been established in key constituencies such as Pampore, Tral, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Anantnag, Kishtwar, and Doda. The first phase will see over 14,000 polling staff deployed across these areas. Of the 23.27 lakh voters, 11.76 lakh are men, 11.51 lakh are women, and 60 identify as third gender. Additionally, 1.23 lakh young voters between the ages of 18 and 19 will be participating, alongside 28,309 voters with disabilities and 15,774 elderly voters aged over 85.
Polling will take place from 7 am to 6 pm, and a mock poll will be conducted before voting begins. Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) such as drinking water, electricity, and toilets will be available at all stations, with specific provisions for elderly and specially-abled voters, such as wheelchairs and separate queues.
In an effort to raise awareness and promote civic engagement, the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme has been active across the region. This comprehensive initiative, led by the Election Commission of India (ECI), aims to ensure maximum voter participation by conducting outreach through print, electronic, and social media, as well as street plays and other community-driven activities. Notably, green polling stations have been introduced to spread awareness about environmental issues, while pink stations focus on encouraging women voters.
Speaking on the preparations, Chief Electoral Officer PK Pole urged voters to take part in the election: “The Election Commission of India is committed to providing all basic facilities at 100 per cent of polling stations and ensuring a smooth voting experience. I appeal to all eligible voters to participate in this monumental celebration of democracy.”
Meanwhile, it has been revealed that more than 40 per cent of the 908 candidates contesting the elections are running as Independents, a reflection of the heightened political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir. The first Assembly elections since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 have drawn widespread interest, with a rise in the number of Assembly seats from 87 to 90 after the delimitation exercise of 2022.
This election sees the second-highest number of Independent candidates in Jammu and Kashmir’s history, with 365 contenders running without party affiliation. The Sopore constituency leads the way, with 22 candidates in total, 14 of whom are Independents. Other constituencies with a significant number of Independent candidates include Sonawari in Bandipora, where 11 of the 20 candidates are running independently.
Conversely, four constituencies, namely Budhal, Kangan, Ramangar, and Srigufwara-Bijbehara, have no independent candidates. In the Srigufwara-Bijbehara seat, three candidates are contesting, including Iltija Mufti, daughter of PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti.
This election is set to be a landmark in J&K’s political history. With over 14,000 polling personnel ready to serve the electorate and meticulous preparations in place, the region is poised for a crucial democratic exercise. As the first phase of voting commences, all eyes will be on Jammu and Kashmir, watching the unfolding of this historic electoral process.
Results for the three-phase elections will be declared on 8th October, and the outcome is eagerly awaited by all, especially considering the political landscape reshaped post-Article 370.