Multi-tiered security for 26 constituencies

Srinagar, Sep 24: As Jammu and Kashmir heads into the second phase of its highly anticipated Assembly elections on Wednesday, extensive security and logistical measures have been implemented to ensure smooth and safe polling across the Union Territory.

More than 13,000 polling officials have been deployed at 3,502 polling stations spread across 26 constituencies, as voters prepare to cast their ballots in what is expected to be a crucial phase of the election.

The second phase follows a successful first round of voting held on September 18, during which 24 assembly seats were contested. The upcoming phase will determine the representatives for 26 constituencies, while the final phase of voting, covering 40 constituencies, is scheduled for October 1. The counting of votes across all phases will take place on October 8.

Senior police officials told Greater Kashmir that a significant security apparatus is in place, with personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Armed Police, and the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CAPFs) fanning out to polling stations.

These forces, in coordination with authorities, moved into position early Tuesday morning. A senior police officer said that multi-tiered security arrangements have been established at all polling locations to ensure that voting is conducted in an atmosphere free from fear or intimidation.

“Every polling station has been fortified with a multi-layered security blanket, and strong measures have been put in place to encourage maximum voter turnout,” the officer said. "We are committed to providing a secure environment for voters, and our focus is on ensuring free and fair elections."

The officer said that all polling stations across 26 constituencies have been secured. “Intense area domination has already been carried out,” the officer said.

Security has also been intensified at the strong rooms where the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be stored following the close of polling on Wednesday. These rooms will be under continuous digital surveillance, with security personnel keeping a round-the-clock watch to maintain the integrity of the machines.

To facilitate voter participation, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has set up 3,502 polling stations in the 26 constituencies set to vote in the second phase. Of these, 1,056 stations are in urban areas, while 2,446 are in rural locations.

All stations have been equipped with webcasting facilities to enhance transparency and monitor proceedings in real time, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

“This is a step towards building trust in the election process and ensuring transparency. Webcasting will be conducted live from each polling station to provide real-time updates and to address any concerns that may arise,” officials said.

“Everything has been done to ensure the polling process is hassle-free for voters. We hope that these efforts will translate into a high voter turnout, reflecting the people’s commitment to shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir,” a senior Police officer said.