The article highlights the fundamental importance of voting in a democratic society, drawing from the perspectives of Winston Churchill, international instruments, and Indian constitutional jurisprudence. It emphasises that voting is a mechanism for citizens to assert ownership over their government and contribute to national progress. The right to vote, though not classified as a fundamental right, is intricately linked to the freedom of expression under Article 19(1)(a). The article discusses landmark cases and electoral reforms in India, underscoring the Election Commission's efforts to foster inclusivity and curb corruption. It advocates for ongoing safeguards and expansions of voting rights, proposing initiatives such as automatic voter registration, awareness campaigns, and educational programs. The conclusion reinforces the democratic ethos, urging measures to ensure every citizen's right to vote and fair representation in the political process.
SRINAGAR: The State Election Commissioner (SEC), K K Sharma on Wednesday said that 57.22 per cent voting was recorded in the seventh phase in the ongoing District Development Council (DDC) elections held today across Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a press conference here, the SEC said that polling was by and large peaceful in the poll going 31 constituencies of DDC including 13 in Kashmir division and 18 in Jammu division that witnessed 57.22 per cent of polling,
The SEC informed that polling was held in 1852 polling stations including 1068 from Kashmir division and 784 from Jammu division.
SEC further informed that Jammu division recorded an average voter turnout of 71.93% with Poonch district recording the highest percentage of 80.12% followed by Reasi district with 76.75% and 75.63% voting recorded in Udhampur district. The lowest turnout in Jammu division was in Doda district which recorded 58.82%.