The Udhampur-Kathua-Doda constituency, sprawling over the scenic yet rugged terrains of Jammu and Kashmir, has once again demonstrated a robust democratic spirit during the first phase of the General Elections 2024 held on a brisk Friday. The constituency, known for its diverse geography ranging from lush green valleys to stark mountainous stretches, saw an impressive voter turnout of 68.27 percent, despite the challenges posed by inclement weather. This region, comprising parts of five districts—Doda, Kathua, Kishtwar, Ramban, and Udhampur—experienced a coordinated effort to ensure the smooth conduct of the polls. The Chief Electoral Officer of Jammu and Kashmir, P.K. Pole commended the electorate for their enthusiastic participation and acknowledged the dedication of the polling staff who braved the adverse conditions to facilitate the electoral process. Each assembly segment within the constituency reported varied polling percentages, reflecting the localized engagement of the communities. Notably, areas such as Kathua AC and Udhampur West AC saw some of the highest turnouts at 75.44 percent and 73.28 percent, respectively, underscoring the keen interest of the voters in shaping their political future. On the other hand, Banihal AC reported the lowest at 58.78 percent, which might be indicative of the logistical difficulties encountered in more remote locales. A total of 2,637 polling stations catered to over 1.6 million eligible voters, including provisions for women, specially abled persons, and youth-operated stations, highlighting the inclusive approach of the election management. The setup not only ensured basic amenities like water, electricity, and toilets but also incorporated advanced features such as CCTV coverage and live webcasting, enhancing transparency and security during the voting process. The media played a crucial role in facilitating widespread coverage and ensuring transparency, with more than 660 journalists on the ground. This level of media involvement is essential in regions like Udhampur-Kathua-Doda, where geographical expansiveness can otherwise hinder information flow.
“As Jammu and Kashmir embarked on the first phase of the General Elections on Friday, the electorate’s aspirations were palpable at several polling booths in Ramban. Amidst occasional rainfall, voters, including enthusiastic youths and determined elderly women, formed lengthy queues from the early morning hours at various stations, all driven by a common desire for employment, development, and improved infrastructure.”
As the polling concluded, the fate of 12 candidates, including notable names like Dr. Jitendra Singh from BJP and Chowdhary Lal Singh from Congress, was sealed in the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Each candidate represents diverse political ideologies and promises, aiming to address the unique needs and aspirations of this constituency. This election phase in Udhampur-Kathua-Doda not only tested the administrative acumen in managing elections in challenging conditions but also reflected the vibrant democratic ethos of its people, who turned out in significant numbers to cast their votes. The final polling percentages, especially from the remote areas, are still anticipated to adjust as reports finalize, potentially pushing the turnout even higher. As the constituency awaits these final numbers, the preliminary results are a testament to the resilient spirit of its electorate and the robust framework established by the Election Commission of India to uphold democratic values in this diverse region. As Jammu and Kashmir embarked on the first phase of the General Elections on Friday, the electorate’s aspirations were palpable at several polling booths in Ramban. Amidst occasional rainfall, voters, including enthusiastic youths and determined elderly women, formed lengthy queues from the early morning hours at various stations, all driven by a common desire for employment, development, and improved infrastructure. Safeena Begum, a 45-year-old resident of the Chareel Dashipora area in Ramban, shared her concerns with Rising Kashmir about the rising unemployment among the educated youth, including her two sons. “Everyone here is clamoring for daily sustenance and jobs. These elections are a beacon of hope, providing us an opportunity to elevate our concerns to the national stage,” she stated, expressing a collective yearning for substantive change and effective representation in Parliament post the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir.
Notable candidates, including Dr. Jitendra Singh and Chowdhary Lal Singh, represented various political ideologies, reflecting the constituency’s diverse needs. Local media coverage highlighted voter concerns, emphasizing the desire for development and effective representation. As the region navigated post-bifurcation changes, the election symbolized a pathway toward tangible improvements and peace through governance.
Rayees Ahmad from the main town of Banihal voiced his early morning voting experience, emphasizing the urgent need for development in higher-altitude villages and completion of the national highway projects. “We’re voting for a transformative leadership that prioritizes the development of tourist spots and tackles the long-standing issues impacting our livelihoods,” Ahmad noted, highlighting a widespread disaffection with traditional political figures. Imtiyaz Ahmad, residing in the remote Hiller area of AC-54 Ramban, lamented the lack of development over the past three decades. Post the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he harbors renewed hope for progress. “Our remote locations suffer from limited access and fewer opportunities compared to urban centers like Srinagar and Jammu. We expect our leaders to focus on integrating our villages better with the main infrastructure grids of highways and railways and to introduce more government schemes to spur local employment,” he expressed. At Polling Station no 167 in Movalkote, Gool, Fayaz Ahmad Khan shared his frustration over the delays in receiving benefits from the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), a scheme intended to assist with housing construction. “Candidates have visited and made promises. Our votes are precious, and we need to elect someone who will fulfill these promises,” Khan stated, echoing a sentiment of cautious optimism but underscored by a demand for accountability. For first-time voter Iqbal Amin Dar, the election represents more than just political participation; it’s about instigating tangible development and peace through proactive governance. Similarly, Naresh Singh, another first-time voter from Chunthan in Ramban district, highlighted the importance of infrastructure development, quality education, and employment opportunities as key issues for the youth in the region. With the polling window extending from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., the district administration had made ample arrangements to ensure a smooth electoral process. This election marks a significant chapter in the region’s history, following the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories in 2019, setting the stage for pivotal changes and opportunities for local governance and development.
Kashmir Horizon View: The Udhampur-Kathua-Doda constituency in Jammu and Kashmir demonstrated robust democratic engagement during the General Elections 2024, despite challenging weather conditions. With a voter turnout of 68.27%, the region showcased diverse voter participation across its five districts. The Election Commission’s inclusive approach ensured access for all eligible voters, supported by advanced polling station features like CCTV coverage and live webcasting. Notable candidates, including Dr. Jitendra Singh and Chowdhary Lal Singh, represented various political ideologies, reflecting the constituency’s diverse needs. Local media coverage highlighted voter concerns, emphasizing the desire for development and effective representation. As the region navigated post-bifurcation changes, the election symbolized a pathway toward tangible improvements and peace through governance.
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