First-time voters express excitement, political leaders emphasize significance of democratic participation

PAMPORE: In the fourth phase of parliamentary elections, the Pampore Constituency in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district recorded a 38.01% polling rate on Monday. Officials revealed that out of the total 99,467 registered voters in the constituency, 37,900 cast their votes.
To facilitate the voting process, approximately 120 polling stations were set up at 74 different locations across the Pampore Constituency. Notably, the Batdalaw Khrew village of Pampore witnessed the highest voter turnout, with a recorded percentage of 74.39%.
In anticipation of the polling day, police and other security forces had implemented tight security measures to ensure a smooth and peaceful voting process in the Pampore Constituency.
The fourth phase of the parliamentary elections witnessed enthusiastic voting across 96 seats, with a particular focus on the Srinagar seat in the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. In five districts, including Srinagar, Pulwama, Badgam, Shopian, and Ganderbal, people eagerly exercised their democratic right to vote.
Pulwama district, in particular, experienced bustling activity as voters from Main town Pulwama, Pampore, Awantipora, Tral, and Kakapora queued up since the early morning hours, eagerly waiting to cast their votes for their favored candidates. Amidst the palpable excitement, voters expressed their eagerness to contribute to shaping the nation’s future through their ballots.
A notable highlight of the day was the joyous participation of first-time voters, especially the youth, who embraced their newfound responsibility with enthusiasm. These young voters expressed gratitude towards the Election Commission of India and emphasized the importance of their vote in selecting representatives who can address their concerns and advocate for their needs.
Senior National Conference leader and Member of Parliament for Anantnag Constituency, Hasnain Masoodi, along with supporters, cast their vote at Government higher secondary school polling station Khrew Pampore.
Former minister and former MLA Mir Zahoor Ahmad of PDP, along with his supporters, cast their vote at the polling station Konibal Pampore. Mir Zahoor has represented the Pampore Constituency since 2002.
BJP district President Pulwama, Mohammad Lateef Bhat, along with his daughter DDC member Kakapora-B Adv Minah Lateef, cast their vote at the polling station Patalbagh Pampore.
Apni Party Pampore Constituency Incharge, Mir Altaf Ahmad, cast his vote at the polling station Konibal Pampore.
Two young voters from Pampore expressed excitement after casting their first-time vote at Konibal Pampore and expressed gratitude to the Election Commission.
Speaking to Kashmir Reader, they emphasized the importance of their vote and urged fellow new voters not to waste their vote but to cast it for their preferred candidate, recognizing its immense value in shaping their community’s future.
Member of Parliament Hasnain Masoodi stated that the voters are aware of the importance of voting, especially after August 5, 2019. He emphasized the opportunity to express opinions without fear and the pressing issues concerning the region.
Mir Zahoor Ahmad expressed confidence in their electoral success, citing past victories and the enthusiasm among voters. Mohammad Lateef Bhat urged voters to participate and choose representatives who speak for the youth’s interests in Parliament.

BILAL HABIB