Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Electoral Officer, PK Pole, announced on Saturday that approximately 88 lakh voters are expected to cast their ballots in the upcoming Assembly elections. This marks a significant political event in the region as it prepares for elections after several years, with a total of 90 assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir going to the polls.
The elections will be conducted in three phases. The first phase will take place on September 18, the second on September 25, and the final phase on October 1. Pole provided a detailed breakdown of the voting schedule, explaining that seven districts will participate in the first phase on September 18, followed by six districts in the second phase on September 23, and seven districts concluding the voting process on October 1. In the first phase, four districts from South Kashmir and three districts from Doda will be among the areas casting their votes.
Special arrangements have been made to ensure smooth polling across the region. Basic minimum facilities, such as water and sanitation, have been established at all polling stations. In addition, 209 new polling stations were created as part of the special summary revision process, and the locations of approximately 200 polling stations were revised following consultations with political parties. Separate queues will be organized for men and women voters, and specific arrangements will be in place for elderly voters to facilitate their participation.
To enhance transparency and security, webcasting will be conducted at every polling booth as per the directives of the Chief Election Commissioner. This is expected to provide real-time monitoring of the election process.