J&K : Final Phase of Voting in Assembly Elections Begins

The final leg of the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir is begins today, with voters set to elect representatives for the remaining 40 constituencies. The multi-phase elections aim to fill all 90 seats of the Union Territory's legislative assembly.

Today's polling covers 24 constituencies in Jammu division and 16 in the Kashmir Valley. In Jammu region, voters will cast their ballots in 11 constituencies of Jammu district, 3 in Samba, 6 in Kathua and 4 in Udhampur. Meanwhile, the Kashmir leg involves 7 seats in Baramulla, 3 in Bandipora and 6 in Kupwara.

It is hoped that this last phase sees increased voter turnout compared to the previous rounds. While the first phase recorded over 61% turnout, the second saw a dip to 56%, lower than 2014 levels. This phase involves areas that have witnessed militancy in the past, so greater civic participation would display positive democratic trends.

The polls come at a crucial juncture, 10 years since the last assembly elections in J&K. Restoration of statehood has emerged as a major poll issue, with various parties pledging to work towards reinstating Jammu and Kashmir's statehood if elected. In addition, the elections feature former separatist leaders participating in the democratic process for the first time.

The BJP, PDP and NC-Congress alliance are the main contenders. Counting of votes will take place on October 8th. Accurate polling data and decisive voter mandates across phases will determine the future trajectory of Indian democracy and governance in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.