The second phase of the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir kicked off on Wednesday morning, with over 25 lakh eligible voters set to decide the fate of 239 candidates across 26 constituencies in six districts of the Union Territory.
Prominent figures contesting in this phase include former Chief Minister and National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah, who is running from both Budgam and Ganderbal constituencies. Other notable candidates include Jammu and Kashmir BJP chief Ravinder Raina from Nowshera and Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hamid Karra, contesting from the Central-Shalteng seat.
BJP Chief Offers Prayers and Urges Free Voting
Ahead of the election, Ravinder Raina offered prayers at Thakurdwara Temple and expressed optimism about the turnout. “I hope we witness high voter participation and break records. This is a moment of joy for democracy,” he said, encouraging people to vote freely and without fear. “Vote for the strengthening of democracy, for a new and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir,” Raina added. He confidently predicted a strong showing for the BJP, claiming that the party will secure a majority and form the government.
He further emphasized the BJP’s accomplishments under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, saying, “There used to be an atmosphere of fear when Congress, PDP, and NC ruled. Today, there’s an atmosphere of joy and peace, thanks to the efforts of PM Modi and HM Shah. You will see record voting here.”
First-Time Voting in New Constituency
Baldev Raj Sharma, the BJP candidate from the newly created Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Assembly constituency, performed prayers at his residence ahead of voting. This is the first election in this constituency, which was created after delimitation. Sharma urged voters to support the BJP in large numbers, expressing pride in representing a constituency named after Shri Mata Vaishno Devi.
Constituencies Voting in This Phase
The elections are taking place in key constituencies, including Kangan (ST), Ganderbal, Hazratbal, Khanyar, Habbakadal, Lal Chowk, Channapora, Zadibal, Eidgah, Central Shalteng, Budgam, Beerwah, Khansahib, Chrar-i-Sharief, Chadoora, Gulabgarh (ST), Reasi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Kalakote – Sunderbani, Nowshera, Rajouri (ST), Budhal (ST), Thannamandi (ST), Surankote (ST), Poonch Haveli, and Mendhar (ST).
The final phase of voting will be held on October 1, with the counting of votes scheduled for October 8.