A voter turnout of 54.11% was recorded in the second phase of polling in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir until 7 PM, according to the Election Commission of India (ECI).

In the district-wise breakdown, Budgam registered 58.97%, Ganderbal 58.81%, Poonch 71.59%, Rajouri 68.22%, Reasi 71.81%, and Srinagar 27.37%, as per the data provided by the ECI.

The voting process took place in a peaceful atmosphere without fear or intimidation. Special arrangements were made for voters living near the border, who were able to cast their votes at 55 polling stations set up near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and Rajouri districts. According to the ECI, these border polling stations operated in line with the Commission’s goal of ensuring that even the most remote areas participate in the democratic process.

The ECI statement noted that the turnout in these six districts exceeded the numbers seen during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections also saw a positive response from voters, with a turnout of 61.38% across 24 Assembly Constituencies.

The Chief Election Commissioner, Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, oversaw the polling to ensure it was conducted smoothly and without incidents.

Earlier in the day, while speaking to the media at Nirvachan Sadan, CEC Rajiv Kumar described the elections as “history in the making,” adding that areas once marked by fear and boycotts are now embracing democratic participation.

Strict security measures were enforced to ensure a safe environment for voters. The next phase of polling is scheduled for October 1, 2024, with the counting of votes to take place on October 8.

(ANI)