Shifting Paradigms | Women emerge as game-changers in J&K’s electoral dynamics

Srinagar, May 26:  There has been a marked shift in voter demographics, particularly among the women in the Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to officials, the data from four of the five key constituencies — Srinagar, Baramulla, Jammu, and Udhampur - indicates a substantial increase in female voter turnout, reflecting growing political engagement and empowerment among women in J&K.

SRINAGAR AND BARAMULLA LEADING THE CHANGE

The most significant improvements in women’s voter turnout were observed in Srinagar and Baramulla Lok Sabha constituencies.

In Srinagar, the turnout for women soared by approximately 20 percentage points, from a meagre 12.67 percent in 2019 to an impressive 33.21 percent in 2024.

This dramatic increase indicates a growing political awareness and participation among the women in the region’s capital.

Similarly, Baramulla witnessed a remarkable rise in women voters, with turnout increasing from 31.76 percent in 2019 to 55.63 percent in 2024.

This nearly 24 percentage point surge is a clear indicator of changing attitudes towards women's roles in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

MIXED TRENDS IN UDHAMPUR AND JAMMU

In contrast, Udhampur saw a slight decline in female voter turnout, from 70.75 percent in 2019 to 69.21 percent in 2024.

While the drop is marginal, it stands out amidst the overall trend of increased female political participation in the region.

Analysts suggest that localised issues or specific candidates might have influenced this decrease.

Jammu experienced a modest improvement in women’s voter turnout, from 72.20 percent in 2019 to 72.71 percent in 2024.

Although the increase is slight, it is a positive sign of sustained high levels of female engagement in the electoral process.

OVERALL TRENDS

On average, across the four constituencies of Srinagar, Baramulla, Jammu, and Udhampur, female voter turnout has risen significantly, from 46.84 percent in 2019 to 57.69 percent in 2024.

This marks an increase of nearly 11 percentage points, underscoring a broader trend of enhanced female participation in the democratic process.

Male voter turnout also saw a substantial rise, from 47.72 percent in 2019 to 61.35 percent in 2024, indicating a general surge in voter engagement across genders in J&K.

Political analysts attribute the increased voter turnout, particularly among women, to several factors including enhanced voter awareness campaigns, better security measures, and more accessible polling stations.

The Election Commission of India’s initiatives to encourage female participation and the efforts of various civil society organisations also played a pivotal role in this paradigm shift.