The first phase of Jammu and Kashmir's Assembly elections kicked off on a bright Wednesday morning, with voters greeted by clear skies and autumn sunshine. Security forces at polling stations in Pampore and Koil in Pulwama district shared friendly smiles with voters who came early to cast their votes.

Voters also turned out in other areas like Anantnag, Kulgam, and Shopian districts, where people are selecting their representatives after a 10-year gap. In the Jammu division, areas like Banihal in Ramban district, Doda, and Kishtwar saw early enthusiasm among voters, especially men, while women are expected to vote later in the day.

A total of 23.27 lakh voters across 24 Assembly constituencies in seven districts—Anantnag, Pulwama, Kulgam, Shopian, Banihal, Kishtwar, and Doda—are deciding the fate of 219 candidates. Authorities have made strong security arrangements for this first phase of elections.

Given the intense campaigning by political parties and candidates, voter turnout is expected to surpass the 58% recorded during the recent Lok Sabha elections.

In a post on X, Kharge expressed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are determined to protect their rights and move toward a new phase of genuine development and full statehood. "As voting begins in the first phase across 24 Assembly constituencies, we encourage everyone to use their democratic right and vote in large numbers. Every vote has the power to influence the future and usher in an era of peace, stability, justice, progress, and economic empowerment. We especially call on first-time voters to participate in this critical election and become agents of change," Kharge said.

"For the first time, a state was downgraded to a Union Territory. When you vote, remember who is responsible for this injustice. Let us come together and create a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir, where every citizen’s voice is heard," he added.

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