Opinion | 2nd Phase of Elections A Message To Their Desire for Stability, Development, & a Voice In Governance.

The statistics of 2nd phase of elections reveal that across the 15 assembly constituencies in these districts, a total of 1,496,459 voters were eligible to vote. Of these, 682,841 exercised their right to vote, leading to an overall voter turnout of 45.6%. While this might seem moderate on a national level, the turnout is especially significant in the context of Jammu and Kashmir, where turnout percentages can often be affected by separatist sentiments, calls for boycott, and security threats. One of the key takeaways from the data is the stark contrast in turnout between different districts. Budgam and Ganderbal saw a much higher turnout than Srinagar. For example: Khansahab in Budgam recorded a turnout of 72.4%. Kangan in Ganderbal closely followed with 72.3%. Chararsharief in Budgam registered a turnout of 70.0%, indicating a strong will to participate in the democratic process in rural and semi-urban areas. The higher turnouts in these areas can be attributed to several factors:

Voters in areas like Budgam and Ganderbal may feel a stronger connection to local governance and see elections as a means to improve their living conditions. These areas are often less urbanized, and local issues like development, infrastructure, and employment opportunities might be more pressing than larger political questions. Political parties may have mobilized their base more effectively in rural constituencies like Khansahab and Kangan. Grassroots campaigns, coupled with a focus on local development, might have encouraged more people to vote.In rural areas, social cohesion and community influence often play a major role in voter turnout. In areas like Budgam, communities might encourage each other to participate in the democratic process as a collective act of political engagement.
On the other hand, the voter turnout in Srinagar tells a different story. The capital city of Jammu and Kashmir recorded much lower voter participation compared to the rural constituencies: Eidgah saw a turnout of just 36.9%. Lalchowk, the commercial and administrative heart of Srinagar, recorded 33.3%. Chanpora and Habbakadal were even lower, with 28.8% and 16.9% respectively. Several factors could explain this reduced participation: Urban voters, particularly in Srinagar, may have felt more disillusioned with the political parties. Being closer to the political and administrative activities, voters in the city may be more cynical about the effectiveness of elections in bringing about meaningful change. Srinagar has historically seen a strong influence of separatist calls for election boycotts in past. Despite the high turnout in rural areas, urban areas like Srinagar might have been more responsive to these calls, leading to lower participation in the elections. It will take more time for city residents to forget their boycott habit all at once.
Despite the stark differences in voter turnout between urban and rural areas, the overall message remains clear that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially in the more rural and semi-urban constituencies, are embracing the democratic process. A turnout of 72.4% in Khansahab and 72.3% in Kangan is a powerful statement that voters are invested in shaping their political future. The resilience of voters in these areas is a message to their desire for stability, development, and a voice in governance. For many, voting represents not only a civic duty but also an expression of hope—hope that their participation can lead to improvements in their everyday lives, from infrastructure development to better employment opportunities and social welfare. This voter turnout data suggests a complex political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir. While many voters in rural areas continue to embrace democracy, there remains a significant portion of the electorate, especially in urban areas like Srinagar, that is either disillusioned with or disengaged
from the electoral process. Bridging this divide will require concerted efforts from political leaders, civil society, and government institutions. Political parties need to focus on re-engaging urban voters, particularly in Srinagar. This could involve addressing their concerns more directly, such as urban development, job creation, and addressing their disillusionment. As evidenced by the high turnout in Budgam and Ganderbal, focusing on local issues can motivate voters to participate. Politicians and political parties need to demonstrate how local governance can improve the daily lives of voters. To enhance urban voter turnout, political parties and stakeholders must prioritize direct outreach and address the specific grievances of urban residents. This includes tackling infrastructure deficits, employment issues, and the general disillusionment.
Author can be reached at : syedjahanzeeb2@gmail.com