Jammu and Kashmir is voting in its first assembly election in a decade, with the first phase of polling taking place on September 18, 2024. This marks the first assembly election in J&K since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which gave the erstwhile state special status. Voting will begin at 7 am and continue till 6 pm.
Voting is being held in 24 out of 90 constituencies across 7 districts in the first phase, 16 seats are in Kashmir and 8 in the Jammu region. Over 23 lakh voters are eligible to cast their ballots for 219 candidates, including 90 independents.
Key parties contesting in this election include the Congress-National Conference alliance, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), BJP, and People’s Conference, among others.
Prominent candidates include PDP’s Iltija Mufti, CPI(M)’s Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, and Congress’ Ghulam Ahmad Mir. Statehood and its restoration is a major election issue, promised by BJP, Congress-NC alliance, and other parties.
What are the key issues voters in J&K are focusing on this election :
Restoration of Article 370 and Statehood:
Most political parties, excluding the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), are advocating for the restoration of Article 370, which previously granted special status to J&K. There is a widespread demand for the restoration of statehood, which many believe would help address local governance issues and enhance political representation.
Development and Unemployment :
Voters are expressing significant concerns regarding development in the region, particularly in terms of infrastructure and job creation. Rising unemployment rates are a critical issue, especially among the youth, who are increasingly vocal about their need for better employment opportunities.
Economic Issues:
Inflation and rising prices are also significant concerns for voters. The economic situation has led to frustrations among residents who feel that their livelihoods have been adversely affected since the changes in governance structure following the abrogation of Article 370.
( With inputs from agencies & Photo Credit: @ECISVEEP/X )
