Srinagar — National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Thursday attributed the low voter turnout in Srinagar during the second phase of voting for Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls to the Centre’s attempt to project normalcy in the union territory. His comments came after Wednesday’s polling, which saw a turnout of over 56%, compared to the first phase’s 61.38% on September 18.
People’s Reaction to Centre’s Narrative of Normalcy
Abdullah expressed his surprise at the low voter turnout in Srinagar, given the lack of boycott calls, threats, or attacks during the elections. He believes the Centre’s portrayal of high voter turnout as a sign of acceptance of the revocation of Article 370 may have influenced people’s decision to stay away from the polls. “This could be a reaction from the people of Srinagar, who do not want to send wrong signals,” Abdullah remarked while speaking in Uri border town of Baramulla district.
Foreign Diplomats and Low Voter Turnout in Srinagar
Abdullah also criticized the Centre’s decision to invite foreign diplomats to observe the polling process, suggesting it might have contributed to the low voter turnout in Srinagar. “Maybe they wanted to showcase a higher turnout as a sign of major change, but the people of Srinagar did not want to be used this way,” he stated. Despite the low numbers, Abdullah expressed gratitude to those who participated, regardless of their political choices.
On Wednesday, a delegation of diplomats from 16 countries, including the US, Norway, and Singapore, monitored the elections in Jammu and Kashmir. This visit coincided with the reduced voter turnout in the Srinagar district, which registered a low of 29.81%, compared to other districts that saw a much higher turnout.
High Voter Turnout in Other Districts
In contrast to Srinagar, five districts — Budgam, Ganderbal, Reasi, Poonch, and Rajouri — witnessed voter turnout exceeding 60%. Abdullah expressed optimism about the upcoming third phase of elections in Baramulla, Bandipora, and Kupwara, traditionally known for high voter participation. He encouraged people to come out in large numbers, especially in support of the National Conference.
National Conference’s Election Strategy
As the elections move into their third phase on October 1, Abdullah, who is contesting from the Ganderbal and Budgam segments, is actively campaigning for his party’s candidates. He expressed hope for a strong voter turnout in the traditionally high-participation areas and encouraged voters to support Congress candidates in constituencies where the National Conference has not fielded any candidates.
Disparity in Voter Turnout Between Districts
While several districts saw impressive voter turnouts, the eight assembly segments of Srinagar district reported an abysmal 29.81% voter turnout on Wednesday. This stark contrast highlights the challenges and sentiments present in the region, especially in Srinagar, where many voters seem reluctant to participate. Despite the Centre’s efforts to project normalcy, the low voter turnout in Srinagar signals a more complex political and emotional landscape in the region.
By Mudabir
Reporting for True to Life News Media Pvt Ltd