In a landmark moment for Jammu & Kashmir, the recently concluded Assembly elections saw record voter turnout, with people from all corners of the Union Territory, particularly Kashmir, participating in large numbers. This was the first Assembly election held in J&K in a decade. Addressing a gathering at Raj Bhawan on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his gratitude to the people, emphasizing that Kashmiris have embraced the power of the vote and rejected violence.
The LG hailed the elections as a victory for democracy. “This election marks a historic moment for Kashmir. The people have chosen ballots over bullets, and the record voter turnout is proof that they now believe in the strength of democracy and the futility of violence,” Sinha said.The peaceful conduct of the elections was a significant achievement, with voters and political candidates alike showing great enthusiasm. “Political rallies and roadshows continued late into the night, with candidates actively engaging with the public, and voters demonstrating an eagerness to participate,” he said. The LG highlighted that over 1.40 crore people cast their ballots, underlining the people’s strong desire to shape the future of their region through democratic means.Particularly notable was the participation of the youth, who Sinha credited with playing a pivotal role in the election’s success. “The youth have made their voices heard in unprecedented numbers.
This turnout shows that the younger generation sees the vote as the tool for change and progress, leaving behind the path of guns and stones,” the LG remarked.
Sinha urged the youth to continue following the principles of Mahatma Gandhi, whose legacy of non-violence was honored on his birth anniversary. “The best tribute to Gandhiji would be for the youth to uphold peace and contribute to the development and prosperity of Jammu & Kashmir,” he said.The Assembly polls, held smoothly after a decade, mark a new chapter in J&K’s democratic journey, with the people clearly signaling their choice for peace, stability, and development.
