J&K polls: 219 candidates for 24 seats; 91 independents
Premium
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Jammu and Kashmir recorded a voter turnout of over 58 per cent, the highest in 35 years. Political leaders in the Union Territory are also expecting a relatively high turnout in the Assembly elections. (Photo: PTI)
With nominations for the first phase of J&K Assembly elections now complete, 219 candidates will be in the fray for the 24 constituencies that go to polls on September 18. Of the 219, 91 are contesting as independents, reports Kaleem Geelani
It’s a warm, sunny day and people are starting to gather in an urban, bustling place. Traditionally known for its educational offerings, the small place called Khudhamam, in the important Dooru Assembly constituency in south Kashmir, now has a political address.
Women in burqas, older men in multicultural yarmulkes and young people in trendy