Final Phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections Underway: 39 Lakh Voters to Decide Fate of 415 Candidates
The third and final phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections began on Tuesday, covering 40 assembly constituencies across seven districts. This final phase is a key step in determining the future political landscape of the region, with voters from both the Kashmir Valley and Jammu region taking part.
Polling is being conducted in three districts of the Kashmir Valley—Kupwara, Baramulla, and Bandipora—and four districts in the Jammu region—Jammu, Udhampur, Kathua, and Samba. A total of 39.18 lakh eligible voters, including 20.09 lakh males, 19.09 lakh females, and 57 third-gender voters, will cast their votes at 5,060 polling stations set up for this phase. Over 20,000 election personnel are on duty, ensuring that the process is smooth and secure.
Major Political Players and Key Constituencies
The election has drawn participation from all the major political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), National Conference (NC), Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Apni Party, and the Democratic Progressive Azad Party.
Some of the prominent candidates contesting in this phase include former Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand, who is running for the Chhamb constituency, Muzaffar Hussain Beig in Baramulla, Sajad Lone in Handwara (Kupwara), and Devinder Rana in Nagrota. Adding to the mix is Lok Sabha MP Engineer Rashid, whose brother Khursheed Ahmad is standing as a candidate from Langate.
High Voter Turnout and Security Measures
Voter turnout in the earlier phases has been impressive, with 61.38% in the first phase and 57.31% in the second. This third and final phase is expected to see strong participation as well, with voters keen to have their say in the formation of the next government.
To ensure a smooth voting process, the Election Commission has made special arrangements for elderly voters, women, and people with disabilities. Security at all polling stations has been tightened, with authorities leaving no stone unturned to maintain peace and order throughout the region.
Election Timeline and Result Declaration
The elections have been held in three phases, with voting for the first 24 seats taking place on September 18, followed by 26 seats in the second phase on September 25. The final phase will conclude voting for the remaining 40 assembly constituencies.
The vote counting is scheduled to begin on October 8, with results expected to be announced the same day. The outcome will significantly shape the political dynamics of Jammu and Kashmir, as parties and candidates await the verdict of the people.
