Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar hailed the ongoing Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir as “history in the making” on Wednesday, highlighting the significant voter turnout in areas that once witnessed calls for boycotting the democratic process.
Addressing reporters as the second phase of polling unfolded across 26 seats in the Union Territory, Kumar emphasized the remarkable shift in voter engagement. “It is a festival of democracy,” he said, noting that voters, including youngsters, women, and senior citizens, were standing patiently in long queues outside polling stations. “Voting is taking place in areas where it did not take place earlier. There were calls for disruption and boycott in the past. It is a standing ovation for democracy.”
The CEC pointed out that 100 percent CCTV coverage had been implemented for this phase, ensuring transparency throughout the electoral process. Joining him were fellow election commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu.
Kumar underscored the lasting significance of the polls, stating, “History is in the making in Jammu and Kashmir, and its impact will be felt for a long time.” He commended the voters for their enthusiastic participation, marking a new chapter in the region’s democratic journey.