Srinagar: As the counting of ballots for the Bijbehara seat finished, the National Conference's Bashir Ahmad Shah (Veeri) was proclaimed the winner with 9,770 votes. Iltija Mufti of the PDP, who was running as a first-time candidate, finished second with 23,529 votes. Sofi Yusuf of the BJP received 3,716 votes, placing third overall.
Constituency: Bijbehara
Total number of candidates: 03
Top candidates: Dr Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri (JKNC) and Iltija Mufti (PDP).
Total population: 146801
Total votes: 102081
Male voters: 50728
Female voters: 51353
Voter Turnout in 2024: 60.43
Women voter turnout in 2024: 62.38
Men voter turnout in 2024: 58.52
Bijbehara is located on National Highway 44, or NH44, and the banks of River Jehlum. It's famous for the Mughal gardens, Padshahi Bagh and Darashuku Bagh. It is also called ‘the town of Chinars’ for the large number of Chinar trees planted there.
This constituency falls in the Anantnag district and has historical political significance as many famous politicians have been born in this area, including the late Mufti Muhammad Sayeed, his daughter Mehbooba, and Abdul Gani Shah (Veeri).
The contest for the seat was between Iltija of the PDP, Bashir Veeri of the NC, and Yousuf of the BJP. The race largely centres on two political leaders, Iltija and Veeri.
The seat was a stronghold of the PDP and witnessed a tight battle between Veeri and Iltija.
Horticulture is the backbone of the local economy of Bijbehara Srigufwa, and voters are looking for improvements in horticulture, infrastructure, and job opportunities for youths.
The polling in the much-awaited assembly elections was held in three phases starting from September 18.
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