Ishtiyaq Kar

Srinagar, Sep 30 (KNS): In the third and final phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, North Kashmir is set for voting tomorrow, with authorities having completed all necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth process across the region.
The elections, spanning the districts of Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora, will witness a contest among prominent political figures and seasoned leaders as they battle for key constituencies in this crucial phase of the polls.
Across all three districts, election officials have ensured that all polling stations are equipped and ready. "We have deployed sufficient staff and resources. Our focus is on making the voting process smooth and inclusive for every voter, including those with special needs," a spokesperson from the Election Commission stated.
Top contenders in this phase include political heavyweights such as former Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Beg, former Ministers Taj Mohiud-Din, Sajjad Lone, Syed Basharat Bukhari, Ghulam Hassan Mir, and Imran Ansari. These leaders represent major parties like the People’s Conference, Apni Party, National Conference (NC), and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Security has been beefed up significantly, especially along the Line of Control (LoC), to prevent any disruption and ensure a peaceful election process.
"Ensuring a safe environment for voters is our top priority. The security forces are fully prepared to thwart any attempt to disturb the elections," a senior police official stated. He added that polling stations across the three districts have been heavily guarded to avoid any untoward incidents.
Baramulla, one of the largest districts in North Kashmir, is a significant battleground in this phase. The district boasts over 722,923 registered voters, with 908 polling stations set up across its seven constituencies: Sopore, Rafiabad, Uri, Baramulla, Wagoora-Kreeri, Gulmarg, and Pattan.
Baramulla constituency itself has the highest number of registered voters—126,321, including 5 transgender voters. Twenty-five candidates are vying for the seat in what promises to be a fierce contest. A voter from Baramulla expressed his excitement, saying, “This election is crucial for us.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelWe want our leaders to focus on development, jobs, and a peaceful future for our children.”
Kupwara, which shares a border with Pakistan, is another critical district going to the polls. With 540,483 registered voters, Kupwara comprises six constituencies: Karnah, Trehgam, Kupwara, Lolab, Handwara, and Langate. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has established 622 polling stations to accommodate voters across these constituencies.

Langate, with 120,211 registered voters, has the highest electorate in the district, followed by Kupwara with 94,956 voters. A resident of Langate expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, saying, "We hope that these elections bring us better infrastructure and more attention to local issues like healthcare and education."
In Karnah, the constituency closest to the LoC, eight candidates are in the fray. Security here is of particular concern due to its proximity to the border. "Karnah is always sensitive due to cross-border tensions, but the security forces have reassured us that all measures are in place for peaceful voting," a local from the region said.
Bandipora, the smallest of the three districts, has 259,893 registered voters across its three constituencies: Sonawari, Bandipore, and Gurez. The ECI has set up 312 polling stations, ensuring both rural and urban voters have easy access to the polls.

Sonawari, with the largest electorate of 121,276 voters, is a key constituency in the district. Eighteen candidates are competing for the seat. "Sonawari has seen a lot of political activity in the past few weeks, and the competition is fierce. We are hopeful for a good turnout tomorrow," an election official stated.
Gurez, the remotest constituency with just 22,291 registered voters, will also play its part in the election. Nestled in the high mountains, Gurez faces unique logistical challenges. "Despite the difficult terrain, polling stations have been set up, and everything is ready for voters to participate," said a senior election official.
In Baramulla alone, 158 polling stations have been set up in the Baramulla constituency, the highest in the district, while Sopore has 129 polling stations, and Uri has 147.(KNS)