The sixth phase of District Development Council (DDC) election in Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a turnout of 52 per cent, according to State Election Commissioner K. Sharma.
At a press conference in Jammu, he said people have reaffirmed their faith in democracy. He said polling was peaceful and people showed enthusiasm despite the severe cold in Kashmir and parts of Jammu. In the sixth phase, 31 constituencies witnessed polls, 14 in Kashmir division and 17 in Jammu division.
The authorities had made adequate security arrangements for the polling—thermal scanners, sanitisers, and masks were arranged for the polling staff and social distancing among the voters was also ensured in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The DDC polls are being held in Jammu and Kashmir for the first time due to the amendment in J&K Panchayat Raj Act 1989 by the BJP after the revocation of Article 370.
The DDC polls have become a direct contest between the BJP and Gupkar Alliance for Gupkar Declaration—a seven-party alliance of regional parties seeking restoration of Article 370 and statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
The polling percentage has been impressive in Kashmir despite anger against the revocation of Article 370 last year.
The eight-phase election will end on December 19 and the results will be announced on December 22.
There has been no violence during the polls as the government has ensured strict security for the candidates and at the polling booths.
The DDC polls are the first major political activity in Jammu and Kashmir after the erstwhile state was stripped of its statehood and autonomy.
The DDC polls are considered crucial for the assembly polls that will be held after the completion of delimitation exercise in the Union Territory in May 2021.
