Security measures have been intensified across Kashmir as the parliamentary election for the Baramulla constituency draws near. With polling day on the horizon, authorities have deployed an additional 200 companies to ensure the safety and security of the electoral process.
Among the 17.37 lakh eligible voters in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency, more than 500 centenarians are set to exercise their franchise. The region is abuzz with political activity, evident from the massive crowds attending election rallies and roadshows, indicating a potential surge in voter turnout.
This election holds immense significance as the first major political contest following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The outcome will determine the fate of prominent figures like Omar Abdullah, National Conference vice-president and former chief minister, alongside 21 other candidates vying for the seat.
The contest features a diverse array of contenders, including 14 Independent candidates, among whom are two women. The north Kashmir seat, known for its historically higher turnout compared to other regions, is poised for a keenly contested battle.
Scheduled for Monday, the election pits Abdullah against formidable opponents like Sajad Lone, a former separatist turned politician leading the People’s Conference. The campaign trail has witnessed intense rivalry, with candidates sparing no effort to secure victory, even drawing in the BJP despite its absence from the electoral fray in the region.
The presence of jailed Awami Ittehad Party leader Abdul Rashid Sheikh, popularly known as Engineer Rashid, further adds intrigue to the electoral landscape. As parties rally their support, observers anticipate a triangular contest among Abdullah, Lone, and Rashid.
The Democratic Progressive Azad Party, led by Ghulam Nabi Azad, has thrown its weight behind Rashid, while the Apni Party, led by Altaf Bukhari, stands in support of Lone.
With a surge in participation witnessed at rallies and roadshows, Baramulla is poised to set new turnout records. Election authorities have approved 1,859 rallies and meetings, with 300 applications rejected.
In the previous election in 2019, the constituency recorded a 34.17% polling rate, with Kupwara district leading at 51.7%, followed by Bandipora at 31.8%, and Baramulla at 24%. The constituency encompasses 18 assembly segments across Kupwara, Baramulla, and Bandipora, with two segments from Budgam included based on the delimitation commission’s recommendations.
Election Commission officials have highlighted that 17.37 lakh eligible voters will cast their ballots at 2,103 polling stations, including 28 in border areas. Polling will be conducted from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, with special provisions made for women, specially-abled persons, and environmental awareness with 21 green polling booths.