Despite recent terror activities, voters in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch turned out in large numbers on Wednesday, continuing their tradition of enthusiastic participation in Jammu and Kashmir’s electoral process. The second phase of the three-phase Assembly elections, which also includes Reasi and three central Kashmir districts—Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Budgam—saw voters queuing up early at polling stations, including those close to the Line of Control (LoC).
The polling process remained peaceful, with officials reporting strong voter participation despite heightened security due to past terror incidents. Security arrangements were reinforced to ensure a safe environment for voters, especially in regions like Rajouri’s Dhangri village, where a terror attack on New Year’s Day last year claimed seven lives.
Deeraj Sharma expressed optimism about voter turnout, stating, “We are expecting 100 percent polling. This is a strong reply to the terrorists who seek to disturb Jammu and Kashmir.” Saroj, a widow who tragically lost both her sons in the Dhangri attack, also cast her vote. “We believe in democracy,” she said. “There is no place for terrorism in a democratic society. It must be dealt with firmly.”
In Poonch’s Surankote area, the residents of Topi Peer village, which suffered a terror ambush that killed four soldiers last year, also turned out in large numbers. “The vote is to strengthen democracy and choose our government after a long wait of 10 years,” said Mohd Arshid, a local resident, hopeful that the next government will prioritize the upliftment of remote areas like his.
The Election Commission reported strong early polling numbers, with Poonch leading at 33.06 percent and Rajouri at 30.04 percent by 11 a.m. Enthusiasm was visible not just in the hinterland but even in villages near the LoC, where residents voiced their faith in democracy. “This is the last village on the Indian side, and the long voter queues reflect the trust people have in the democratic process,” said Mohammad Akram from Balnoi village in Mankote sector.First-time voters like Saqib Mumtaz expressed happiness about participating in the elections. “The long wait to choose our MLA is over. We are thankful for the Schedule Tribe status granted to Paharis and hope the new government will upgrade education and healthcare,” she said.
District Development Council (DDC) member Wajid Bashir Khan acknowledged the eagerness of voters, noting that people have always shown a strong commitment to elections. “This is the first election in 10 years, and there is great enthusiasm among the people to vote,” he said.