As the countdown begins for the Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency (PC) to go to polls in the first phase of General Elections on April 19, the spotlight is on over 16.23 lakh voters who will determine the fate of 12 candidates vying for representation in this crucial constituency.
The Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency spans across five districts—Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Udhampur, and Kathua—comprising 18 Assembly Segments. Covering an expansive area of 16,707 square kilometers, the constituency showcases a diverse electorate of 16,23,195 eligible voters, including 8,45,283 male voters, 7,77,899 female voters, and 13 third gender voters, embodying the inclusivity of the democratic process.
In Kishtwar district, which comprises three Assembly Segments (Inderwal, Kishtwar, and Padder Nagseni), a total of 1,75,897 electors are ready to exercise their franchise.
Doda district, with three Assembly Segments (Bhaderwah, Doda, and Doda West), contributes 3,05,093 voters to the electoral roll.
Ramban district, encompassing two Assembly Segments (Ramban and Banihal), has 2,19,124 registered electors.
Udhampur District, comprising four Assembly Segments (Udhampur West, Udhampur East, Chenani, and Ramnagar), boasts 4,19,854 electors.
Kathua district, with six Assembly Segments (Bani, Billawar, Basohli, Jasrota, Kathua, and Hiranagar), anticipates robust participation with 5,03,227 registered voters.
To ensure smooth voting, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has established 2,637 polling stations across the constituency—405 in Kishtwar, 529 in Doda, 348 in Ramban, 654 in Udhampur, and 701 in Kathua District.
In a bid to uphold the principles of fairness and transparency, the ECI has deployed 3,658 Ballot Units, 3,570 Control Units, and 3,636 VVPATs (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) to uphold the accuracy and integrity of the electoral process. Additionally, 1,472 polling stations will be equipped with webcasting facilities to further enhance transparency during the democratic exercise.
With these preparations in place, all eyes are on the Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency as it gears up for the crucial electoral battle on April 19.