Yogesh
Jammu, Oct 1: Thrilled first-time voters made their voices heard today by contributing to the election of 24 members of the Legislative Assembly across Jammu, Samba, Udhampur and Kashmir districts.
Despite adverse weather and heavy rains, excited young voters flocked to their polling booths early in the morning. After getting their fingers inked, many were seen taking selfies and creating social media reels at booths specially decorated by the district administration.
As per the latest electoral rolls, 3,918,220 voters are eligible to cast their ballots in this phase, including 2,009,033 male voters, 1,909,130 female voters, and 57 third-gender voters. The role of youth in strengthening democracy is underscored by the fact that 194,000 young voters aged 18 to 19 are eligible to participate in this third phase of the assembly election.
First-time voters displayed smiles and confidence at the polling stations.
Komal from Samba expressed her excitement, “It was my first vote, and I was thrilled for the past week, especially since the BLO delivered my voting slip at home. This morning, I came here with my cousin to ensure my name was on the list. I hope that with my first vote, a government will be formed that works for farmers and youth.”
Nidhi Bharti, a voter from Bahu Fort in the Bahu constituency, said, “I was really excited for this day. I’ve seen my parents vote, but after getting my finger inked, I now understand the value of one vote and the responsibility it carries.”
Neeraj Kumar, who voted in Samba Gagwal, said, “We voted for a better future and more employment opportunities.”
Meghna Matto, a member of the Valmiki community voting for the first time, said this is a significant moment, particularly after the community gained voting rights following the abrogation of Article 370. “This opportunity is incredibly important for us,” she said.
Meetakshi Chib from Samba said voting for the first time is both a great feeling and a responsibility. “I’m excited to cast my first vote for the development of my area,” she said.
Some voters, despite being in their mid-20s, were also voting for the first time.
Akanshi Sharma from Basholi recalled, “I was just over 17 during the Lok Sabha elections and was upset my name wasn’t on the list. This time, I made sure it was included, and I’m thrilled to have that indelible ink mark on my finger.”
After casting his first vote in Udhampur, Ashish Kumar said: “I voted for a candidate I believe can work for the development of our district and the country.”
