Jammu And Kashmir Assembly Election 2024 Live Updates | At 5 PM, Voter Turnout Surges To 54 Percent

Voting concluded for the second phase of the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The final turnout will be announced by the Election Commission of India. The voting was held in a peaceful manner.

As voting was held in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, the Election Commission of India ran special shikara service to ferry voters living near Dal lake to the polling booths to help them cast their vote in the Zadibal constituency.

The Zadibal assembly constituency is witnessing a multi-cornered contest with the main contest believed to be between NC's Tanvir Sdiq and People's Conference's Imran Reza Ansari.

As the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections 2024 heads towards the last leg, the voter turnout surged to 54 percent, the Election Commission of India said in its latest update.

Here is the constituency-wise voting percentage till 5 PM:

1. Beerwah - 62.50 %

2. Budgam - 47.18 %

3. Budhal (ST) - 66.95 %

4. Central Shalteng - 29.09 %

5. Chadoora - 54.16 %

6. Channapora - 26.95 %

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 66 %

8. Eidgah - 34.65 %

9. Ganderbal - 53.44 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 72.19 %

11. Habbakadal - 15.80 %

12. Hazratbal - 30.24 %

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani - 66.37 %

14. Kangan (ST) - 67.60 %

15. Khansahib - 67.70 %

16. Khanyar - 24 %

17. Lal Chowk - 30.44 %

18. Mendhar (ST) - 69.67 %

19. Nowshera - 69 %

20. Poonch Haveli - 72.71 %

21. Rajouri (ST) - 68.06 %

22. Reasi - 69.09 %

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi - 75.29 %

24. Surankote (ST) - 72.18 %

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 68.44 %

26. Zadibal - 28.36 %

US Deputy Chief of Mission Jorgan K Andrews , who was part of the delegation that visited Kashmir on Wednesday to witness the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections 2024, praised India for the poll preparedness.

"It is fascinating to see how India organises its elections and how thorough the preparations are and how celebratory this period is. It has been very inspiring...It is heartening to see Kashmir is casting vote after 10 years," Andrews said.

As voting goes on in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections 2024, residents of zero point of India-Pakistan border in Nowshera assembly constituency of Rajouri also exercised their franchise with long queues seen outside the polling booths.

The residents of Makri and Sehar villages of Nowshera Assembly Constituency located at the zero point of the border were seen queuing up outside the polling booths set up by the Election Commission of India to cast vote.

The main contenders in fray from Nowshera seat are J&K BJP President Ravinder Raina, NC Candidate Surinder Kumar Choudhary and PDP's Haq Nawaz.

A foreign delegation of 15 delegates on Wednesday visited a floating polling booth set up in the famous Dal lake in Srinagar as part of their inspection of the voting process in the second phase of the Assembly elections 2024.

The delegation comprising delegates from foreign countries were seen disembarking from a houseboat and stepping into a floating polling booth in the Dal lake.

A voter turnout of 46.12 percent was recorded till 3 PM in the ongoing second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls as per the ECI.

Here is the constituency-wise turnout till 3 PM as per the ECI's latest update:

1. Beerwah - 51.25 %

2. Budgam - 39.25 %

3. Budhal (ST) - 59.18 %

4. Central Shalteng - 24.09 %

5. Chadoora - 46.01 %

6. Channapora - 22.20 %

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 55.04 %

8. Eidgah - 29 %

9. Ganderbal - 44.41 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 65.57 %

11. Habbakadal - 13.28 %

12. Hazratbal - 25 %

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani - 57.79 %

14. Kangan (ST) - 56.55 %

15. Khansahib - 58.20 %

16. Khanyar - 20.50 %

17. Lal Chowk - 24.22 %

18. Mendhar (ST) - 58.17 %

19. Nowshera - 59.24 %

20. Poonch Haveli - 62.91 %

21. Rajouri (ST) - 59.51 %

22. Reasi - 61.83 %

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi - 64.26 %

24. Surankote (ST) - 62.95 %

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 59.09 %

26. Zadibal - 23.78 %

Amid the ongoing voting in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections on Wednesday, former Srinagar Municipal Corporation Mayor and NC-turned-PC-turned-Apni Party turncoat Junaid Azim Mattu said that the voter turnout was "not what was expected".

"The voter turnout is not what was expected, following the Lok Sabha elections. Till now, 21,000 votes have been cast, but this number was around 32,000 during the parliamentary elections in this constituency. There has been a boycott in some areas, but we don't know the reasons about it. But Assembly elections are being held in Jammu and Kashmir after 10 years and this is a festival of democracy in itself," Mattu said while talking to the media during his visit to a polling station. The former SMC Mayor is fighting as an independent candidate from Zadibal constituency.

As voting goes on for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir elections, Chowdhary Zulfkar Ali, BJP candidate from Budhal seat of Jammu said that people have a "lot of hope with the Modi government".

"The development of the region and unemployment are among the major issues here. The region has not seen much development in the last 70-72 years. Regional political parties were involved in region-specific politics. They took votes and worked for specific regions, people were upset with that. It is because of this people are coming out to vote in such large numbers. People have lot of hope with the Modi government and we expect that double-engine government will be formed," Zulfkar Ali said.

The foreign delegates, who visited the polling stations during the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections on Wednesday thanked the Ministry of External Affairs for the trip and praised the voters for voting with enthusiasm.

"We are very grateful to MEA for organising this trip and allowing us an opportunity to actually visit a polling station. Even in Delhi, because of regulations, we would not typically walk into a polling station to see how people vote. I am glad that they (women voters) came... that's a wonderful thing to see," said Alice Cheng, Deputy High Commissioner at Singapore High Commission after visiting a polling booth in Srinagar.

Likewise, US Deputy Chief of Mission Jorgan K Andrews, who also visited a polling station in Srinagar hailed the voters.

"It's great see the enthusiasm. It's great to see Kashmiris out voting after a pause for 10 years. So, we are very excited to see the result and it looks very healthy, very democratic," Andrews said.

As the clock ticked 1 PM on Wednesday, the voter turnout in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election which stood at 36.93 percent, the ECI said in its latest update.

Here is the constituency-wise turnout till 1 PM.

1. Beerwah - 40.95 %

2. Budgam - 31.68 %

3. Budhal (ST) - 47.50 %

4. Central Shalteng - 19.14 %

5. Chadoora - 36.65 %

6. Channapora - 18.21 %

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 44.26 %

8. Eidgah - 23 %

9. Ganderbal - 35.80 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 53.94 %

11. Habbakadal - 11.14 %

12. Hazratbal - 18.70 %

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani - 46.08 %

14. Kangan (ST) - 45 %

15. Khansahib - 45.44 %

16. Khanyar - 16.07 %

17. Lal Chowk - 19.11 %

18. Mendhar (ST) - 46.96 %

19. Nowshera - 45.89 %

20. Poonch Haveli - 51.57 %

21. Rajouri (ST) - 47.36 %

22. Reasi - 50.25 %

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi - 49.47 %

24. Surankote (ST) - 50.96 %

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 47.58 %

26. Zadibal - 19.25 %

As voting began for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections on Wednesday, 102-year-old voter, Haji Karam Din Bhat in Reasi district chose to celebrate the festival of democracy at the polling station in Reasi instead of voting from home.

Expressing gratitude to the government of India for holding the elections, Bhat said that he was happy to finally exercise franchise after a gap of 10 years.

As voting goes on in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar hailed voters for the smooth and free and fair voting he said was a clarion call against boycott calls in the past.

"We are very very happy that the voting is taking place in entire Valley and Jammu with extreme fervour and enthusiasm. Be it the valley of Srinagar, bet it the high mountain peaks from where calls used to come for disruption... everywhere there are people around, long queues since morning and even in areas where there used to be calls for boycott... there's an enthusiasm. People are giving a statement, a standing ovation to the democracy by standing so peacefully in the queues, waiting for their turn. This is what is the history in making in Jammu and Kashmir. It's for the world to see how elections can take place in a peaceful, fair and inducement-free manner. Today, there are large number of diplomats also around in the area from different countries to see for themselves as to what is happening in Jammu and Kashmir," Kumar said.

Jammu and Kashmir Election 2024: “People were feeling suffocated. They were looking for an opportunity to give vent to their anger and the anger was for multiple purposes.., may it be constitutional, legal, cultural or religious. They were waiting for the elections to come,” says J&K Congress President Tariq Hameed Karra

As voting goes on in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, National Conference (NC) MP, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi said that the party expects better results in the second phase given the response from people during campaigning.

"We got a good response during campaigning in both phases...We are hopeful of getting better results in this phase..." Ruhullah said during his visit to a polling booth in Budgam. The NC MP extensively campaigned for former CM and party vice president Omar Abdullah, who is contesting from Budgam besides Ganderbal.

After casting his vote, the President of Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party and candidate from Channapora assembly seat, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said that people were voting in large numbers and hoping for a change.

"I congratulate the people of J&K for getting an opportunity to vote...People are coming out to vote in large numbers with a hope for change...The public has the golden opportunity to elect a state government which will ensure their development..." Bukhari said.

As the clock ticked 11 AM on Wednesday, the voter turnout in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election which stood at a little over 10 percent at 9 AM, surged past 24 percent by 11 AM, the ECI said in its latest update.

Here is the constituency-wise turnout till 11 AM.

1. Beerwah - 26.62 %

2. Budgam - 21.78 %

3. Budhal (ST) - 31.62 %

4. Central Shalteng - 12.27 %

5. Chadoora - 24.16 %

6. Channapora - 11.48 %

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 28.85 %

8. Eidgah - 15.70 %

9. Ganderbal - 24.91 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 35.72 %

11. Habbakadal - 7.40 %

12. Hazratbal - 12.80 %

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani - 30.74 %

14. Kangan (ST) - 30.94 %

15. Khansahib - 27 %

16. Khanyar - 10.79 %

17. Lal Chowk - 11.39 %

18. Mendhar (ST) - 30.90 %

19. Nowshera - 21.42 %

20. Poonch Haveli - 34.26 %

21. Rajouri (ST) - 33.77 %

22. Reasi - 32.31 %

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi - 31.08 %

24. Surankote (ST) - 33.79 %

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 31.61 %

26. Zadibal - 12.52 %

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah targeted the NDA government at the Centre for sending foreign delegates “as guided tourists” to witness the second phase of assembly elections while barring foreign journalists to cover the elections.

“When the same people comment about J&K, the government of India says that it is an internal matter and it does not want any interference. Then, why have they been brought here? If foreign diplomats can come here, why were foreign journalists barred from covering the elections?” he asked.

Amid the ongoing voting for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls, a voter in central Kashmir's Budgam alleged rigging claiming that his vote had been "already polled" at the concerned polling station. The Returning Officer however refuted the allegation saying that the complainant did not have the requisite documents.

“Security is in place. The man went inside and was asked to show the required documents. He felt agitated by that,” on a man alleging that his vote has already been polled at a polling booth in Budgam," Returning Officer Afroza said over the allegations. Voting is going on in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls for 26 constituencies across six districts.

Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday urged voters to vote in large numbers in the ongoing second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections saying INDIA bloc will break the "vicious circle of injustice created by the BJP".

"My brothers and sisters of Jammu and Kashmir, today is the second phase of voting, come out in large numbers and vote for your rights, prosperity and prosperity - vote for INDIA. By snatching away your statehood, the BJP government has insulted you and played with your constitutional rights. Your every vote for INDIA will break this vicious circle of injustice created by the BJP and bring Jammu and Kashmir on the path of prosperity," Rahul said in a post on X.

As voting is underway in the second phase of voting for the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, BJP candidate for the freshly carved Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Constituency, Baldev Raj Sharma Offered Prayers Ahead of casting vote.

A voter turnout of 10.22 was recorded till 9 AM on Wednesday in the second phase of voting for Jammu and Kashmir assembly election 2024, the Election Commission Of India said in an update. A total of 26 assembly seats are going to polls in the second phase.

Here is the constituency-wise voting percentage till 9 AM.

1. Beerwah - 11%

2. Budgam - 8.59%

3. Budhal (ST) - 12.42%

4. Central Shalteng - 5.08%

5. Chadoora - 10.88%

6. Channapora - 4.28%

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 13%

8. Eidgah - 6.96%

9. Ganderbal - 12.06 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 14.38%

11. Habbakadal - 2.63%

12. Hazratbal -5.43%

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani -12.79%

14. Kangan (ST) -13.52%

15. Khansahib - 11.59%

16. Khanyar - 4.40%

17. Lal Chowk -4.28%

18. Mendhar (ST) - 14.06%

19. Nowshera -12.03%

20. Poonch Haveli - 14.56%

21. Rajouri (ST) - 13.97%

22. Reasi - 12.71%

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi -12.66%

24. Surankote (ST) - 14.57%

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 12.43%

26. Zadibal - 5.09%

As the voting got underway for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Election, Aga Syed Muntazir, PDP candidate contesting Budgam seat took a dig at former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is contesting opposite Muntazir.

"I have no competition here as the public of the constituency has bestowed their trust on me and they will not trust any tourist or infiltrator..." Muntazir said.

Omar is contesting from Budgam given his poor prospects on Ganderbal seat where he is facing a formidable opponent in Ishfaq Jabbar.

As voting got underway for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Polls, Baramulla MP and Awami Ittihad Party Chief Engineer Rashid appealed voters to "listen to their conscience before exercising their franchise.

"I hope that the people will vote in central Kashmir listening to the voice of their conscience. I appeal to the city voters that city is the heart of Kashmir and you all should listen to conscience while voting and don't vote under any pressure. Vote for the candidate who you think is the best and will speak for your day-today issues. I hope that the wave of Awami Ittehad Party will sweep Srinagar and Budgam too," Rashid said.

Several foreign delegates on Wednesday left for Srinagar from the Delhi airport to witness the second phase of Assembly Elections in Jammu and Kashmir being held after a decade and for the first time after the abrogation of Article 370. The delegates were seen checking in at the counters to fly to leave for Srinagar.

As voting got underway for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections 2024 on Wednesday, J&K BJP President Ravinder Raina claimed victory for the saffron party once the results are announced on October 8.

Raina while talking to the media after casting vote at a polling station in Rajouri said, “People are coming out in large numbers to participate in the second phase of voting. I believe, BJP will win in Jammu and Kashmir. Raina is the BJP's candidate from Nowshera Assembly seat in Jammu region.

The first three voters at a polling station in Bagoo Rampora planted saplings immediately after casting their votes. This initiative highlights the community's commitment to environmental sustainability alongside civic engagement.

In the Ganderbal constituency, former Chief Minister and JKNC Vice President Omar Abdullah is contesting the election against PDP's Bashir Ahmad Mir, making this a closely watched race in the region.

Aijaz Hussain, the BJP candidate for the Lal Chowk Assembly constituency, expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, stating, "People have gained confidence in the democratic set-up." He emphasised the importance of development, urging voters to support his party.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to vote in large numbers for a developed and terror-free region. He said that the people should vote for a government that works with commitment for the rights of the deprived and women and for the development of the region.

SSP Rajour, Randeep Kumar reported a festive atmosphere as citizens turned out in large numbers to vote today. He stated, "People have stepped out of their houses like it is a festival." Kumar assured that comprehensive security arrangements are in place. He said, "Wherever we felt security was necessary, it has been deployed." Additional forces from the CAPF and the Army have been stationed to ensure a smooth electoral process.

As the second phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir commences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to urge citizens to participate actively in the democratic process.

In his tweet, PM Modi stated, "Today is the second phase of voting for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. I appeal to all voters to cast their vote and play their important role in strengthening democracy." He also congratulated first-time voters, emphasising the significance of their participation.

As the second phase of the election begins, people are lined up to cast their votes in 26 constituencies across six districts of the Union territory.

Voting for the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections has officially begun, with stringent multi-layered security measures in place to ensure a smooth electoral process. Election officials are overseeing the polling across various constituencies, emphasising the importance of safety for voters and staff.

Baldev Raj Sharma, the BJP candidate for the newly formed Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Assembly constituency, performed prayers at his residence today ahead of the second phase of voting. This election marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time constituents will cast their votes in this newly created constituency following the delimitation process.

Ravinder Raina, the Jammu and Kashmir BJP chief and party candidate for the Nowshera constituency, visited the Thakurdwara Temple to offer prayers ahead of the second phase of the Assembly elections.

Preparations are in full swing at a polling station in Jammu designated for Kashmiri migrants as the second phase of voting takes place on Wednesday. This crucial phase will encompass 26 assembly constituencies across six districts, with a total of 25.78 lakh eligible voters expected to cast their ballots.

Voting concluded for the second phase of the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The final turnout will be announced by the Election Commission of India. The voting was held in a peaceful manner.

As voting was held in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, the Election Commission of India ran special shikara service to ferry voters living near Dal lake to the polling booths to help them cast their vote in the Zadibal constituency.

The Zadibal assembly constituency is witnessing a multi-cornered contest with the main contest believed to be between NC's Tanvir Sdiq and People's Conference's Imran Reza Ansari.

As the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections 2024 heads towards the last leg, the voter turnout surged to 54 percent, the Election Commission of India said in its latest update.

Here is the constituency-wise voting percentage till 5 PM:

1. Beerwah - 62.50 %

2. Budgam - 47.18 %

3. Budhal (ST) - 66.95 %

4. Central Shalteng - 29.09 %

5. Chadoora - 54.16 %

6. Channapora - 26.95 %

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 66 %

8. Eidgah - 34.65 %

9. Ganderbal - 53.44 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 72.19 %

11. Habbakadal - 15.80 %

12. Hazratbal - 30.24 %

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani - 66.37 %

14. Kangan (ST) - 67.60 %

15. Khansahib - 67.70 %

16. Khanyar - 24 %

17. Lal Chowk - 30.44 %

18. Mendhar (ST) - 69.67 %

19. Nowshera - 69 %

20. Poonch Haveli - 72.71 %

21. Rajouri (ST) - 68.06 %

22. Reasi - 69.09 %

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi - 75.29 %

24. Surankote (ST) - 72.18 %

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 68.44 %

26. Zadibal - 28.36 %

US Deputy Chief of Mission Jorgan K Andrews , who was part of the delegation that visited Kashmir on Wednesday to witness the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections 2024, praised India for the poll preparedness.

"It is fascinating to see how India organises its elections and how thorough the preparations are and how celebratory this period is. It has been very inspiring...It is heartening to see Kashmir is casting vote after 10 years," Andrews said.

As voting goes on in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections 2024, residents of zero point of India-Pakistan border in Nowshera assembly constituency of Rajouri also exercised their franchise with long queues seen outside the polling booths.

The residents of Makri and Sehar villages of Nowshera Assembly Constituency located at the zero point of the border were seen queuing up outside the polling booths set up by the Election Commission of India to cast vote.

The main contenders in fray from Nowshera seat are J&K BJP President Ravinder Raina, NC Candidate Surinder Kumar Choudhary and PDP's Haq Nawaz.

A foreign delegation of 15 delegates on Wednesday visited a floating polling booth set up in the famous Dal lake in Srinagar as part of their inspection of the voting process in the second phase of the Assembly elections 2024.

The delegation comprising delegates from foreign countries were seen disembarking from a houseboat and stepping into a floating polling booth in the Dal lake.

A voter turnout of 46.12 percent was recorded till 3 PM in the ongoing second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls as per the ECI.

Here is the constituency-wise turnout till 3 PM as per the ECI's latest update:

1. Beerwah - 51.25 %

2. Budgam - 39.25 %

3. Budhal (ST) - 59.18 %

4. Central Shalteng - 24.09 %

5. Chadoora - 46.01 %

6. Channapora - 22.20 %

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 55.04 %

8. Eidgah - 29 %

9. Ganderbal - 44.41 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 65.57 %

11. Habbakadal - 13.28 %

12. Hazratbal - 25 %

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani - 57.79 %

14. Kangan (ST) - 56.55 %

15. Khansahib - 58.20 %

16. Khanyar - 20.50 %

17. Lal Chowk - 24.22 %

18. Mendhar (ST) - 58.17 %

19. Nowshera - 59.24 %

20. Poonch Haveli - 62.91 %

21. Rajouri (ST) - 59.51 %

22. Reasi - 61.83 %

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi - 64.26 %

24. Surankote (ST) - 62.95 %

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 59.09 %

26. Zadibal - 23.78 %

Amid the ongoing voting in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections on Wednesday, former Srinagar Municipal Corporation Mayor and NC-turned-PC-turned-Apni Party turncoat Junaid Azim Mattu said that the voter turnout was "not what was expected".

"The voter turnout is not what was expected, following the Lok Sabha elections. Till now, 21,000 votes have been cast, but this number was around 32,000 during the parliamentary elections in this constituency. There has been a boycott in some areas, but we don't know the reasons about it. But Assembly elections are being held in Jammu and Kashmir after 10 years and this is a festival of democracy in itself," Mattu said while talking to the media during his visit to a polling station. The former SMC Mayor is fighting as an independent candidate from Zadibal constituency.

As voting goes on for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir elections, Chowdhary Zulfkar Ali, BJP candidate from Budhal seat of Jammu said that people have a "lot of hope with the Modi government".

"The development of the region and unemployment are among the major issues here. The region has not seen much development in the last 70-72 years. Regional political parties were involved in region-specific politics. They took votes and worked for specific regions, people were upset with that. It is because of this people are coming out to vote in such large numbers. People have lot of hope with the Modi government and we expect that double-engine government will be formed," Zulfkar Ali said.

The foreign delegates, who visited the polling stations during the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections on Wednesday thanked the Ministry of External Affairs for the trip and praised the voters for voting with enthusiasm.

"We are very grateful to MEA for organising this trip and allowing us an opportunity to actually visit a polling station. Even in Delhi, because of regulations, we would not typically walk into a polling station to see how people vote. I am glad that they (women voters) came... that's a wonderful thing to see," said Alice Cheng, Deputy High Commissioner at Singapore High Commission after visiting a polling booth in Srinagar.

Likewise, US Deputy Chief of Mission Jorgan K Andrews, who also visited a polling station in Srinagar hailed the voters.

"It's great see the enthusiasm. It's great to see Kashmiris out voting after a pause for 10 years. So, we are very excited to see the result and it looks very healthy, very democratic," Andrews said.

As the clock ticked 1 PM on Wednesday, the voter turnout in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election which stood at 36.93 percent, the ECI said in its latest update.

Here is the constituency-wise turnout till 1 PM.

1. Beerwah - 40.95 %

2. Budgam - 31.68 %

3. Budhal (ST) - 47.50 %

4. Central Shalteng - 19.14 %

5. Chadoora - 36.65 %

6. Channapora - 18.21 %

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 44.26 %

8. Eidgah - 23 %

9. Ganderbal - 35.80 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 53.94 %

11. Habbakadal - 11.14 %

12. Hazratbal - 18.70 %

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani - 46.08 %

14. Kangan (ST) - 45 %

15. Khansahib - 45.44 %

16. Khanyar - 16.07 %

17. Lal Chowk - 19.11 %

18. Mendhar (ST) - 46.96 %

19. Nowshera - 45.89 %

20. Poonch Haveli - 51.57 %

21. Rajouri (ST) - 47.36 %

22. Reasi - 50.25 %

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi - 49.47 %

24. Surankote (ST) - 50.96 %

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 47.58 %

26. Zadibal - 19.25 %

As voting began for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections on Wednesday, 102-year-old voter, Haji Karam Din Bhat in Reasi district chose to celebrate the festival of democracy at the polling station in Reasi instead of voting from home.

Expressing gratitude to the government of India for holding the elections, Bhat said that he was happy to finally exercise franchise after a gap of 10 years.

As voting goes on in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar hailed voters for the smooth and free and fair voting he said was a clarion call against boycott calls in the past.

"We are very very happy that the voting is taking place in entire Valley and Jammu with extreme fervour and enthusiasm. Be it the valley of Srinagar, bet it the high mountain peaks from where calls used to come for disruption... everywhere there are people around, long queues since morning and even in areas where there used to be calls for boycott... there's an enthusiasm. People are giving a statement, a standing ovation to the democracy by standing so peacefully in the queues, waiting for their turn. This is what is the history in making in Jammu and Kashmir. It's for the world to see how elections can take place in a peaceful, fair and inducement-free manner. Today, there are large number of diplomats also around in the area from different countries to see for themselves as to what is happening in Jammu and Kashmir," Kumar said.

Jammu and Kashmir Election 2024: “People were feeling suffocated. They were looking for an opportunity to give vent to their anger and the anger was for multiple purposes.., may it be constitutional, legal, cultural or religious. They were waiting for the elections to come,” says J&K Congress President Tariq Hameed Karra

As voting goes on in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, National Conference (NC) MP, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi said that the party expects better results in the second phase given the response from people during campaigning.

"We got a good response during campaigning in both phases...We are hopeful of getting better results in this phase..." Ruhullah said during his visit to a polling booth in Budgam. The NC MP extensively campaigned for former CM and party vice president Omar Abdullah, who is contesting from Budgam besides Ganderbal.

After casting his vote, the President of Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party and candidate from Channapora assembly seat, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said that people were voting in large numbers and hoping for a change.

"I congratulate the people of J&K for getting an opportunity to vote...People are coming out to vote in large numbers with a hope for change...The public has the golden opportunity to elect a state government which will ensure their development..." Bukhari said.

As the clock ticked 11 AM on Wednesday, the voter turnout in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election which stood at a little over 10 percent at 9 AM, surged past 24 percent by 11 AM, the ECI said in its latest update.

Here is the constituency-wise turnout till 11 AM.

1. Beerwah - 26.62 %

2. Budgam - 21.78 %

3. Budhal (ST) - 31.62 %

4. Central Shalteng - 12.27 %

5. Chadoora - 24.16 %

6. Channapora - 11.48 %

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 28.85 %

8. Eidgah - 15.70 %

9. Ganderbal - 24.91 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 35.72 %

11. Habbakadal - 7.40 %

12. Hazratbal - 12.80 %

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani - 30.74 %

14. Kangan (ST) - 30.94 %

15. Khansahib - 27 %

16. Khanyar - 10.79 %

17. Lal Chowk - 11.39 %

18. Mendhar (ST) - 30.90 %

19. Nowshera - 21.42 %

20. Poonch Haveli - 34.26 %

21. Rajouri (ST) - 33.77 %

22. Reasi - 32.31 %

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi - 31.08 %

24. Surankote (ST) - 33.79 %

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 31.61 %

26. Zadibal - 12.52 %

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah targeted the NDA government at the Centre for sending foreign delegates “as guided tourists” to witness the second phase of assembly elections while barring foreign journalists to cover the elections.

“When the same people comment about J&K, the government of India says that it is an internal matter and it does not want any interference. Then, why have they been brought here? If foreign diplomats can come here, why were foreign journalists barred from covering the elections?” he asked.

Amid the ongoing voting for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls, a voter in central Kashmir's Budgam alleged rigging claiming that his vote had been "already polled" at the concerned polling station. The Returning Officer however refuted the allegation saying that the complainant did not have the requisite documents.

“Security is in place. The man went inside and was asked to show the required documents. He felt agitated by that,” on a man alleging that his vote has already been polled at a polling booth in Budgam," Returning Officer Afroza said over the allegations. Voting is going on in the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls for 26 constituencies across six districts.

Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday urged voters to vote in large numbers in the ongoing second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections saying INDIA bloc will break the "vicious circle of injustice created by the BJP".

"My brothers and sisters of Jammu and Kashmir, today is the second phase of voting, come out in large numbers and vote for your rights, prosperity and prosperity - vote for INDIA. By snatching away your statehood, the BJP government has insulted you and played with your constitutional rights. Your every vote for INDIA will break this vicious circle of injustice created by the BJP and bring Jammu and Kashmir on the path of prosperity," Rahul said in a post on X.

As voting is underway in the second phase of voting for the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, BJP candidate for the freshly carved Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Constituency, Baldev Raj Sharma Offered Prayers Ahead of casting vote.

A voter turnout of 10.22 was recorded till 9 AM on Wednesday in the second phase of voting for Jammu and Kashmir assembly election 2024, the Election Commission Of India said in an update. A total of 26 assembly seats are going to polls in the second phase.

Here is the constituency-wise voting percentage till 9 AM.

1. Beerwah - 11%

2. Budgam - 8.59%

3. Budhal (ST) - 12.42%

4. Central Shalteng - 5.08%

5. Chadoora - 10.88%

6. Channapora - 4.28%

7. Chrar-i-Shareif - 13%

8. Eidgah - 6.96%

9. Ganderbal - 12.06 %

10. Gulabgarh (ST)- 14.38%

11. Habbakadal - 2.63%

12. Hazratbal -5.43%

13. Kalakote - Sunderbani -12.79%

14. Kangan (ST) -13.52%

15. Khansahib - 11.59%

16. Khanyar - 4.40%

17. Lal Chowk -4.28%

18. Mendhar (ST) - 14.06%

19. Nowshera -12.03%

20. Poonch Haveli - 14.56%

21. Rajouri (ST) - 13.97%

22. Reasi - 12.71%

23. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi -12.66%

24. Surankote (ST) - 14.57%

25. Thannamandi (ST) - 12.43%

26. Zadibal - 5.09%

As the voting got underway for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Election, Aga Syed Muntazir, PDP candidate contesting Budgam seat took a dig at former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is contesting opposite Muntazir.

"I have no competition here as the public of the constituency has bestowed their trust on me and they will not trust any tourist or infiltrator..." Muntazir said.

Omar is contesting from Budgam given his poor prospects on Ganderbal seat where he is facing a formidable opponent in Ishfaq Jabbar.

As voting got underway for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Polls, Baramulla MP and Awami Ittihad Party Chief Engineer Rashid appealed voters to "listen to their conscience before exercising their franchise.

"I hope that the people will vote in central Kashmir listening to the voice of their conscience. I appeal to the city voters that city is the heart of Kashmir and you all should listen to conscience while voting and don't vote under any pressure. Vote for the candidate who you think is the best and will speak for your day-today issues. I hope that the wave of Awami Ittehad Party will sweep Srinagar and Budgam too," Rashid said.

Several foreign delegates on Wednesday left for Srinagar from the Delhi airport to witness the second phase of Assembly Elections in Jammu and Kashmir being held after a decade and for the first time after the abrogation of Article 370. The delegates were seen checking in at the counters to fly to leave for Srinagar.

As voting got underway for the second phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections 2024 on Wednesday, J&K BJP President Ravinder Raina claimed victory for the saffron party once the results are announced on October 8.

Raina while talking to the media after casting vote at a polling station in Rajouri said, “People are coming out in large numbers to participate in the second phase of voting. I believe, BJP will win in Jammu and Kashmir. Raina is the BJP's candidate from Nowshera Assembly seat in Jammu region.

The first three voters at a polling station in Bagoo Rampora planted saplings immediately after casting their votes. This initiative highlights the community's commitment to environmental sustainability alongside civic engagement.

In the Ganderbal constituency, former Chief Minister and JKNC Vice President Omar Abdullah is contesting the election against PDP's Bashir Ahmad Mir, making this a closely watched race in the region.

Aijaz Hussain, the BJP candidate for the Lal Chowk Assembly constituency, expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, stating, "People have gained confidence in the democratic set-up." He emphasised the importance of development, urging voters to support his party.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to vote in large numbers for a developed and terror-free region. He said that the people should vote for a government that works with commitment for the rights of the deprived and women and for the development of the region.

SSP Rajour, Randeep Kumar reported a festive atmosphere as citizens turned out in large numbers to vote today. He stated, "People have stepped out of their houses like it is a festival." Kumar assured that comprehensive security arrangements are in place. He said, "Wherever we felt security was necessary, it has been deployed." Additional forces from the CAPF and the Army have been stationed to ensure a smooth electoral process.

As the second phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir commences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to urge citizens to participate actively in the democratic process.

In his tweet, PM Modi stated, "Today is the second phase of voting for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. I appeal to all voters to cast their vote and play their important role in strengthening democracy." He also congratulated first-time voters, emphasising the significance of their participation.

As the second phase of the election begins, people are lined up to cast their votes in 26 constituencies across six districts of the Union territory.

Voting for the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections has officially begun, with stringent multi-layered security measures in place to ensure a smooth electoral process. Election officials are overseeing the polling across various constituencies, emphasising the importance of safety for voters and staff.

Baldev Raj Sharma, the BJP candidate for the newly formed Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Assembly constituency, performed prayers at his residence today ahead of the second phase of voting. This election marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time constituents will cast their votes in this newly created constituency following the delimitation process.

Ravinder Raina, the Jammu and Kashmir BJP chief and party candidate for the Nowshera constituency, visited the Thakurdwara Temple to offer prayers ahead of the second phase of the Assembly elections.

Preparations are in full swing at a polling station in Jammu designated for Kashmiri migrants as the second phase of voting takes place on Wednesday. This crucial phase will encompass 26 assembly constituencies across six districts, with a total of 25.78 lakh eligible voters expected to cast their ballots.