The second phase of the Jammu Kashmir Assembly Elections 2024 concluded today, with 25 constituencies going to polls.
This phase witnessed significant voter participation across multiple districts, with many voters showing up in large numbers to voice their concerns about key issues, including the rice curtailment policy.
As per officials who spoke to The Kashmiriyat, by the end of polling, the overall voter turnout for Phase 2 stood at 54.11 per cent.
The last phase is scheduled for October 1, with counting set to take place on October 8.
In Budgam, a voter turnout of 58.97% was recorded, while Ganderbal, where Omar Abdullah is in a tight race, saw 58.81% voter participation.
Poonch led the polls with an impressive 71.59% turnout, followed closely by Reasi at 71.81%. Rajouri also witnessed a strong voter presence, with 68.22% turnout. In contrast, Srinagar continued its trend of low participation, closing with just 27.37%.
The high voter turnout in Poonch, Reasi, and Rajouri is seen as a reflection of growing local concerns about issues such as the reduction of rice allotments and other economic challenges.
In Ganderbal, the race is expected to be closely watched as Omar Abdullah seeks to secure his seat amidst widespread public discontent over central government policies.
Among the notable candidates in this phase were Omar Abdullah in Ganderbal, BJP’s Ravinder Raina in Nowshera, Altaf Bukhari in Chanapora, Congress leader Tariq Hamid Karra, and Sarjan Barkati, a prominent figure, contesting in Beerwah.
As the second phase wraps up, all eyes now turn to the third and final phase on October 1, which will determine the final composition of the Jammu Kashmir Assembly.