The polling for the final phase of assembly elections in the Jammu and Kashmir state region has started with around 3.9 million electorates ready to vote. They will decide the electoral fortunes of 415 contenders vying for 40 assembly constituencies in seven districts. By 11 AM, there was a 28.12% voter turnout, which shows significant growth as people are engaging with the voting process. To this end, fourteen districts were identified as the most suitable for horticulture, comprising Jammu, Udhampur, Samba, and Kathua in the southern region of Jammu, while in the north region of Kashmir, there are Baramulla, Bandipora, and Kupwara.
According to a document from the Independent Electoral Commission, the polling process started at 7 AM and ended at 6 PM, which gave the voters enough time to vote.
For protection and free and fair voting, over 400 companies of security forces, paramilitary and armed policemen have been placed all over the polling stations. This particular election is crucial for the simple reason that it was only the second assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir since the annulment of Article 370 in the constitution in August 2019. Ever since the hailing of the election date, the population eagerly anticipates the outcome of the election, which is to be announced on October 8th.
This very election was the subject of a speech to the voters by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. He said, “Today is the third and final phase of polling in Jammu and Kashmir. As I said, this election is for the dignity of the state; this election is for the rights of the people of the states. People of all are also urged to come out of their homes in large numbers and cast their votes in favor of INDIA. Every vote for INDIA will strengthen the core of the emerging future of Jammu and Kashmir and make you stand for your rights.”
It is expected that more voters will be going to the polling booths to cast their votes as the political parties prepare themselves for the results of the assembly elections, which will be out within a week.
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