Srinagar Witnesses Historic Voter Turnout: Lok Sabha Polls 2024.
As the clock struck 8 PM, an impressive 36.58% of eligible voters had cast their ballots.
||Black and White Digital News||
||Parvinder Singh May 13,2024||
In a remarkable display of democratic fervor, voters from the picturesque Srinagar Parliamentary constituency, along with Budgam, Ganderbal, Pulwama, and partly Shopian districts, turned out in record numbers for the fourth phase of India’s 18th Lok Sabha elections.
As the clock struck 8 PM, an impressive 36.58% of eligible voters had cast their ballots, marking one of the highest turnouts witnessed in decades.
This election holds significant symbolism as it is the first general election held in the Kashmir Valley post the abrogation of Article 370 and the implementation of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.
The enthusiasm and participation of voters underscored their trust in the electoral process despite the region’s unique challenges.
The voting process was conducted smoothly across 2,135 polling stations in the constituency, with stringent security measures in place to ensure a safe and fair environment for voters. Live webcasting from all polling stations added transparency to the proceedings.
The Election Commission’s meticulous planning was evident in the provision of essential amenities at every polling booth, including water, electricity, ramps, and waiting rooms. Special arrangements were made to accommodate diverse needs, such as wheelchair access and dedicated stations managed by women, specially-abled individuals, and youth volunteers.
Over 8,000 dedicated polling personnel were deployed to facilitate voting for the electorate, which exceeds 17.47 lakhs. Command-and-Control centers have been operational around the clock since March 16, overseeing operations in Srinagar and Jammu, ensuring the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.
For the first time, 21 green and eco-friendly polling stations were set up, embodying a commitment to sustainable practices. Furthermore, the Election Commission facilitated Kashmiri migrant voters from relief camps in Delhi, Jammu, and Udhampur to cast their ballots at special polling stations or via postal ballot.
The success of voter turnout can be attributed to strategic voter awareness campaigns under the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program, which aimed to engage and inform citizens about the importance of voting.
As the nation eagerly awaits the election results, the overwhelming participation witnessed in Srinagar and adjoining districts serves as a testament to the resilience and spirit of democracy in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Election Commission has expressed satisfaction with the conduct of polling and awaits further phases of this historic election, which will shape the future of India’s governance.
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