Kashmir Division Overtakes Jammu in Voter Registration Figures
In a significant demographic shift, the Kashmir division has now surpassed the Jammu division in terms of registered voters, according to the latest district-wise enrollment data presented in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly on Wednesday. The data reveals that Kashmir division boasts 4,581,375 registered voters, while Jammu division trails with 4,161,503 voters. This development highlights changing electoral dynamics in the Union Territory.
Overall Voter Composition and Third-Gender Representation
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has a total of 8,742,878 registered voters, comprising a detailed breakdown of 4,465,161 men, 4,277,568 women, and 149 individuals from the third gender. Notably, Srinagar district leads in third-gender voter representation with 29 registered voters in this category. Other districts show varied numbers, with Pulwama having 19 third-gender voters and Kupwara reporting 2. Overall, the Kashmir division accounts for 99 third-gender voters, reflecting inclusive enrollment efforts.
District-Wide Voter Distribution and Government Response
Among individual districts, Jammu district holds the highest number of voters at 1,189,555, while Kishtwar district has the lowest with 178,402 voters. This information was disclosed by the government in response to queries raised by PDP’s Pulwama MLA, Waheed Parra, who also urged the administration to outline steps taken to achieve 100 per cent voter enrolment. Parra emphasized that the increase in voter numbers from the Valley is largely due to greater participation by youth and first-time voters, marking a shift from previous years of electoral boycott.
Electoral Roll Revision Mechanisms
The government clarified that, in accordance with the Representation of the People Act, 1950, the Election Commission of India has established a structured process for voter registration. This includes notifying four qualifying dates each year for a special summary revision (SSR) of electoral rolls in the Union Territory. This systematic approach aims to ensure accurate and up-to-date voter lists, facilitating democratic participation across all regions.
