The just concluded Lok Sabha polls in Jammu and Kashmir witnessed an unprecedented turnout of voters, marking a pivotal moment in the region's turbulent history
For years, the region which had been a hotbed of violence, conflict, and political unrest, this time witnessed a major turnaround in voters’ participation in the election as they appeared eager to make their voices heard through democratic means.
 
This was markedly seen in Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat of Jammu and Kashmir where election was held on May 25. According to the Election Commission of India, the Lok Sabha seat in Anantnag-Rajouri recorded 54.46% voting---this was the highest electoral turnout since 1989.
 
Srinagar and Baramulla areas of Jammu and Kashmir also saw a record voter turnout. While Srinagar recorded 38.49% voting, Baramulla witnessed 59.1% voting---the highest in several decades, according to the Election Commission of India.
 
The election featured several notable moments: cricketers pausing a match to cast their votes, hardline separatists and families of active terrorists supporting democracy, and centenarians and individuals with disabilities overcoming obstacles to reach polling stations.

In the recent weeks’ discussions and debates about candidates, policies, and the power of the vote took the centre stage in offices, market places, homes, cafes and other venues across the Valley relegating separatists and terrorists to backburner. Contesting candidates and their supporters urged people to turn their frustrations into a powerful electoral force.

The peaceful execution of elections has received commendation from both national and international observers, highlighting the strength of democracy despite challenges. The voter turnout, especially in regions that have experienced unrest, indicated a collective aspiration for peace, stability, and inclusive development.

Political analysts view the high voter turnout as a strong endorsement of the Modi government's policies and leadership. The election results are anticipated to influence Kashmir's political landscape significantly, supporting ongoing efforts toward peace, development, and reconciliation.

Voting percentage in previous polls

In contrast to previous elections, which were often marred by violence, boycotts and low turnout, the latest polls on all three Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir valley saw voter turnout surging to over 50%, a significant increase from the 19.16% recorded in the 2019 parliament polls. This enthusiasm was seen across various demographics, with young and first-time voters showing a keen interest in shaping the future of their region.

The gross voter turnout in Kashmir since 1996 Lok Sabha polls has varied significantly. In 1996, turnout was recorded at 40.94% which decreased sharply in 1998 to 30.06%. It then fell further in 1999, reaching 11.93% and this trend contrasts with the 2004 elections, which saw a comparatively higher turnout of 18.57%.

It then increased again to a similar level in 2009 and 2014, reaching 25.55% and 25.86% respectively, marking a high point in voter participation.

However, just a few months before the August 5, 2019 momentous decision, the voter turnout decreased again. These variations underscore the dynamic nature of voter engagement across different election cycles, influenced by various socio-political factors and regional dynamics.

Improved security situation

 Nearly five years after the abrogation of the special status of erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, the once volatile region has witnessed a significant transformation in security situation.

This shift not only brought a comparative peace but also instilled a newfound confidence among people of the region, culminating in a robust voter turnout in the Lok Sabha polls.

The decision to revoke the special status to Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019 was met with a mix of apprehension and hope. While some feared an escalation in violence, others saw it as a potential turning point towards integration and development. Today, that sentiment appears to be gaining ground, as evidenced by the enthusiastic participation of Kashmiris in the democratic process.

Many people, who cast their votes for the first time in life, said they were initially sceptical when Article 370 was abrogated, but after seeing their children playing freely in the streets and businesses reopening, they have gained confidence in the developments in J&K that have followed since 2019. This sense of normalcy is the reason for them to cast votes this time.

Separatists ready to join mainstream

 The high voting trends could have a significant impact on assembly elections, which are likely to happen in a few months, and possibly on the stability of the region. For more than three decades Pakistan sponsored and controlled separatist leaders in Kashmir used to threaten people to stay away from polling.

But now not only Hurriyat Conference chairman and Kashmir’s head priest Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said that they were not against elections, but radical Jamaat-e-Islami, Kashmir leaders openly voted in the Lok Sabha polls.

Ghulam Qadir Wani, the chief of the Jamaat, a socio-politico-religious recently expressed a desire to participate in elections should the government lift the ban on his organization and encouraged his cadres to vote in the current and upcoming assembly elections.

Making a U-turn from their earlier stand, he categorically stated that Jamaat has always opposed terrorism, supported democracy, and now intended to restore peace in Jammu & Kashmir.

Youth turn voting into a badge of honour

 For years, casting a vote in Jammu and Kashmir was an act met with suspicion and fear with voters often seen as outcasts, isolated by a society deeply entrenched in political complexities and conflicts.

But as the Lok Sabha polls began, people, especially youth, decided to challenge the fear and stigma attached to voting. Pictures and videos of people with ink-stained fingers from all walks of life - students, teachers, farmers, and shopkeepers - flooded social media since phase wise voting began in Jammu and Kashmir on May 13.

In Jammu and Kashmir’s flawed political journey, a new chapter has been written---one where the ink on fingers symbolizes the ink of a pen poised to write a bright future and celebrated openly and proudly, unlike the past where the act of voting shrouded in secrecy and fear.

Conclusion

 The successful conclusion of the parliamentary polls has kindled a fresh wave of enthusiasm among people of Jammu and Kashmir, setting the stage for the upcoming assembly elections with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.

The sense of empowerment stemming from the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections has translated into a burgeoning anticipation for the assembly elections.

The hope kindled by the parliamentary elections serves as a reminder that democracy thrives on participation, and that every vote counts. Moreover, this shift towards a more engaged and hopeful electorate has broader implications for the political landscape.

It challenges political parties to rise to the occasion, emphasizing the need for genuine connection with voters, clear articulation of policies, and a commitment to addressing pressing issues.
 
***The writer is a senior Kashmir-based journalist; views expressed here are his own