The sixth phase of Lok Sabha polling witnessed a historic voter turnout in the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary constituency, with approximately 54.8 percent of electors exercising their franchise. This surge in participation signifies a significant increase compared to the 9.70 percent turnout recorded in 2019.
Chief Electoral Officer Pandurang Kondbarao Pole lauded the remarkable engagement of first-time voters, women, and senior citizens, hailing it as a testament to the robustness of democracy in Jammu and Kashmir.
“With the conclusion of the Lok Sabha polls, J&K has recorded an unprecedented 58.11 percent polling across its five parliamentary constituencies, the highest in the past 35 years,” Pole declared.
Peaceful polling characterized the districts of Anantnag, Kulgam, Poonch, Shopian, and Rajouri. Even after the official closing time of 6 PM, voting persisted at certain polling stations due to the overwhelming turnout.
This surge in participation marks a new era of civic engagement in these districts. Unlike previous elections marred by boycott calls and intimidation, this year’s polls witnessed unwavering faith in the ballot, with active participation at every polling station.
Previously, the highest voter turnout since the onset of terrorism in J&K was recorded in 1996 at 50.02 percent. This year’s 54.8 percent turnout thus stands as the highest in the last 35 years.
Pole attributed this success to improved security, law and order, mobilization efforts by candidates and political parties, election awareness through SVEEP activities, and voters’ belief in the ballot for sustainable development.
Voting unfolded across 2,338 polling stations in the Anantnag parliamentary constituency, with live webcasting at each site. Early morning queues underscored the enthusiasm among voters, with the highest turnout seen in the Surankote assembly segment (68 percent) and the lowest in Kulgam (32 percent).
Elderly, women, and youth turned out in significant numbers, contributing to a peaceful election environment. The Chief Electoral Officer and senior officials oversaw the process, ensuring its smooth conduct throughout the day.
For the first time, the migrant community participated in large numbers, with over 26,000 Kashmiri migrant electors casting their votes at special polling stations in Jammu, Udhampur, and Delhi.
Pole expressed gratitude to all voters for their resilience in the face of weather challenges and commended the efforts of polling personnel, security forces, and officials involved in the election process.
This historic turnout marks a triumph of democratic spirit, showcasing voters’ commitment to shaping the future of their constituencies through active participation in the electoral process.