The second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections 2024 is currently underway, focusing on 26 seats across six districts. The Election Commission of India has set up 3,502 polling stations to facilitate the voting process, which includes 1,056 urban polling stations and 2,446 rural polling stations. In a significant move towards enhancing transparency, all polling stations are equipped with webcasting facilities.

Voting began at 7 AM and will continue until 6 PM today. More than 2.5 million voters are expected to cast their votes, determining the fate of 239 candidates competing in this phase. Notable figures in the electoral fray include former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, JKPCC president Tariq Hamid Karra, and BJP J&K chief Ravinder Raina.

To ensure a secure environment for voters, a robust deployment of security forces has been arranged at polling booths, including police, armed police, and central paramilitary forces. The first phase of the assembly elections, held on September 18, registered a voter turnout of 61.13% across 24 constituencies in seven districts, indicating a strong voter engagement in this democratic exercise after a decade-long hiatus.

Across the region, from Jammu to Srinagar and Ganderbal, voters are seen eagerly heading to polling stations, showcasing their enthusiasm to participate in the electoral process. For instance, long queues formed at the Government Middle School in the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Assembly constituency of Katra, where residents expressed their commitment to voting. One voter from Jammu articulated a heartfelt appeal to fellow voters, emphasizing the importance of casting their votes, stating, "Kashmiri Pandits connect with Kashmir. Jammu is our home but the inner connection is with Kashmir... All the registered voters should come and cast their vote."

As of 1 PM, the Election Commission reported a voter turnout of 36.93% in the second phase, with the following region-wise turnout:

Budgam: 39.43%

Ganderbal: 39.29%

Poonch: 49.94%

Rajouri: 46.93%

Reasi: 51.55%

Srinagar: 17.95%

The election campaign has largely revolved around critical issues such as the revocation and restoration of the former state's special status. However, many women voters have voiced their concerns regarding the rising electricity bills and the erratic supply of electricity in their areas. An elderly woman at a polling station in Srinagar expressed her grievances to a visiting foreign diplomat, Jorgan K Andrews, stating, "The electricity supply has been destroyed and tariff meters have been installed. Now they say water consumption will also be metered." This highlights the pressing local issues that resonate with the electorate alongside broader political debates.

As the day progresses, the focus remains on ensuring a smooth and secure voting process, with the election's outcome poised to impact the future political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir significantly.

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