The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is contesting 16 seats, while the Congress-National Conference alliance has fielded candidates in all constituencies. A triangular contest is expected in most seats, adding a layer of unpredictability to the first phase of the elections.
Security measures have been ramped up significantly ahead of the polls. Kashmir Zone Inspector General of Police, VK Birdi, has confirmed that multi-layered security arrangements are in place to ensure smooth and peaceful voting. The Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CAPFs), along with local police, will be deployed to safeguard polling stations.
Jammu and Kashmir’s assembly elections are being held in three phases. After the first phase on 18th September, the second phase will see voting for 26 seats on 25th September, and the third phase will involve 40 seats on 1st October. The counting of votes will take place on 8th October.
The final day of campaigning witnessed a flurry of activity, with all parties and independent candidates making their last efforts to sway voters. Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a rally, asserting the BJP’s firm stance on combating terrorism. “We will bury terrorism so deep that it will never resurface,” he said, while also highlighting the government’s efforts to empower village defence guards and special police officers with modern weaponry.
Meanwhile, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, campaigning with great energy on the last day, targeted political opponents AIP and Jamaat-e-Islami, suggesting that their interests are influenced by external forces. He expressed confidence in the National Conference’s position, despite the challenges posed by rivals.
As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for the first phase of elections, all eyes will be on the outcome of these 24 crucial seats, which could set the tone for the remaining phases and the overall direction of the assembly polls.
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