The second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Elections saw large crowds of voters arriving at polling stations across six districts. From the early hours of the morning, voters formed long lines, continuing the momentum from Phase-1. By 7 PM, an impressive voter turnout of 54.11% was recorded. This turnout surpassed the figures from the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections for the same regions, showing the people’s commitment to democracy. Phase-1 also had an encouraging voter turnout of 61.38% across 24 assembly constituencies.
Voting in Jammu and Kashmir: A Strong Democratic Response
The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, Shri Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, oversaw the entire voting process. They ensured that everything ran smoothly without any violence. Earlier in the day, during a media interaction at Nirvachan Sadan, CEC Rajiv Kumar described these elections as “history in the making,” where the once-troubled valleys and mountains of Jammu and Kashmir were now full of voters participating in what he called “Jashn-e-Jamhuriyat” (celebration of democracy).
Security was tight to allow voters to feel safe and confident while casting their votes. In addition, webcasting was set up at all polling stations to ensure that the voting process was completely transparent. The CEC praised voters, particularly those waiting patiently in lines, for their belief in democracy.
Six Districts and 26 Constituencies See Enthusiastic Participation
In this second phase, voting took place in 26 Assembly Constituencies (ACs) across six districts: Budgam, Ganderbal, Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, and Srinagar. There were 239 candidates contesting in this phase, out of which 233 were men and 6 were women.
Young voters, especially those voting for the first time, were seen proudly showing off their inked fingers after casting their votes, demonstrating their commitment to peace, progress, and democracy. Over 1.2 lakh first-time voters, aged 18-19 years, participated in this phase of the elections.
Promoting Accessibility for All Voters
Accessibility was a top priority in this election. Shri Rakesh Kumar, a Paralympic Bronze medalist and the Election Commission of India’s National Icon for Persons with Disabilities (PwD), was one of the prominent voters in this phase. He cast his vote at Sri Mata Vaishno Assembly Constituency, encouraging others to do the same.
One polling station in each constituency was managed by Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), while 26 polling stations were staffed entirely by women. The Election Commission made sure that every voter could participate easily, no matter their physical ability.
Scenic and Historic Voting Locations
The famous Dal Lake provided a beautiful backdrop for voters, who arrived at polling stations on the iconic Shikaras (traditional Kashmiri boats) to cast their votes. The entire voting process was peaceful, with voters feeling safe and comfortable in the secure environment created by the Election Commission.
Even voters living near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and Rajouri districts were able to cast their votes at Border Polling Stations. In Poonch district, 55 polling stations were set up near the border for voters from the Poonch Haveli and Mendhar constituencies. Similarly, 51 polling stations were established in Rajouri district. This step highlights the Election Commission’s commitment to making sure that even the most remote corners of the country can participate in the democratic process.
Special Arrangements for Kashmiri Migrant Voters
Kashmiri migrant voters were also given special attention in this election. The Election Commission set up 24 special polling stations for these voters—19 in Jammu, 1 in Udhampur, and 4 in Delhi. The process for migrant voters was made easier by eliminating the complicated Form-M requirement, allowing for self-certification instead.
Home-Voting for Elderly and PwD Voters
For the first time in Jammu and Kashmir’s Assembly elections, the home-voting facility was introduced for elderly and PwD voters. Voters aged above 85 years and PwDs with 40% or more disability were able to vote from the comfort of their homes. The process was carefully managed, with the entire voting procedure being videotaped to ensure transparency while keeping the vote private.
Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) at Polling Stations
To make the voting experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible, the Election Commission provided Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) at all polling stations. These facilities included drinking water, electricity, toilets, ramps, furniture, adequate shelter, help desks, wheelchairs, and volunteers to assist voters.
Voter Turnout to Be Updated
As of 7 PM, the provisional voter turnout for Phase-2 stood at 54.11%. The final turnout numbers will be updated on the Voter Turnout App as polling officials return from their stations and all votes are counted. The Election Commission will release another press note later in the evening with updated voter turnout figures after considering any repolls or statutory adjustments.
District-Wise Voter Turnout (Provisional as of 7 PM)
| District | No. of ACs | Approx. Voter Turnout (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Budgam | 5 | 58.97% |
| Ganderbal | 2 | 58.81% |
| Poonch | 3 | 71.59% |
| Rajouri | 5 | 68.22% |
| Reasi | 3 | 71.81% |
| Srinagar | 8 | 27.37% |
| Total | 26 | 54.11% |
The Election Commission of India (ECI) continues to make the voting process accessible, transparent, and secure for all voters across Jammu and Kashmir. As voters head to the polls in upcoming phases, the focus remains on ensuring a fair, free, and peaceful election.
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