59 per cent polling recorded in phase-first: J&K CEO Pole, credits peaceful atmosphere for high turnout

Srinagar, Sep 18 : Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Electoral Officer P K Pole Wednesday said that the first phase of Assembly elections were held peacefully that recorded 59 per cent polling with a possibility of fractional increase to the figure.

“Total poll percentage for the first phase of Assembly polls was 59 per cent with a fractional increase very much possible. This time, we worked out district wise figures as earlier one Assembly constituency was spread in two districts. Post delimitation exercise no Assembly constituency is spread in two districts,” Pole said addressing a press conference in Jammu.

He said the polling percentage has come from the 3276 polling booths and 23 special polling booths—19 in Jammu and four in Delhi for the migrant voters.

He said the Election department of J&K has worked out percentage figures from districts. “ I am glad to share that the South Kashmir districts have witnessed huge voter turnout. The areas in South Kashmir would otherwise witness a low percentage of even single digits. Since Lok Sabha polls were held in April-May, the voting percentage from South Kashmir districts increased significantly,” the J&K CEO said. “I am sure that in the next two phases, the voting percentage will be much higher than today.”

Sharing the district-wise percentage, Pole said Anantnag district recorded 54.17 per cent voting, Kulgam 61.7, Pulwama 46.03 and Shopian 53.64. “In Jammu, Doda district recorded 69.33 per cent voting, Kishtwar 77.23 and Ramban 67. 71 per cent polling,” he said.

He said in Kashmir, Kulgam recorded the highest voter turn and in Jammu, Kishtwar district topped the list. “Today’s voting percentage is higher than previous elections held in 2009, 2014 and 2024 (Lok Sabha polls) and 2008, 2014, 2024 (Assembly polls),” Pole said.

Asked whether any untoward incident was reported anywhere, Pole said no incident was reported to an extent where re-poll should be done. “Minor incidents were reported in Kishtwar where the Deputy Commissioner took the cognisance and the issue was resolved,” he said.

He credited the highest voter turnout to the peaceful environment, vigorous campaigning by candidates and massive awareness campaign launched by the Election department of J&K