Wed Sep 18 01:15:50 UTC 2024: ## Jammu and Kashmir Votes in First Phase of Assembly Elections After 10 Years
**Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir -** The first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections commenced today, marking the first time the region will vote for its legislative assembly in a decade. The polling is taking place across 24 constituencies in seven districts, with over 23 lakh voters eligible to cast their ballots.
This election holds historical significance as it is the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status. The erstwhile state was subsequently divided into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The current elections are also the first since Jammu and Kashmir became a Union Territory.
The polling, which began at 7 AM, will continue until 6 PM. A total of 219 candidates, including 90 independents, are vying for the 24 seats. The remaining 66 seats will be contested in two subsequent phases on September 25 and October 1, with the final vote count scheduled for October 8.
The election is witnessing high voter turnout, with people eager to exercise their democratic right and influence the future of Jammu and Kashmir. Several political parties are participating in the elections, with each promising to address the region’s unique challenges and aspirations.
The first phase of voting is being closely monitored by the Election Commission of India, with special focus on ensuring free and fair elections. The focus is particularly on the participation of women and young voters, who are urged to actively engage in the democratic process.
First Piper 