The Jammu & Kashmir Assembly Elections 2024 signify more than a return to the ballot box — they reflect a people’s effort to reclaim their political voice after years of uncertainty following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. With a voter turnout of 63.88%, the polls became a referendum on identity, dignity, and representation. Yet, the elections remain contested. Across the Line of Control, political voices on both sides have questioned their legitimacy, arguing that participation under either Indian or Pakistani constitutional frameworks risks endorsing political systems that may not align with Kashmir’s aspirations. In this complex context, the mandate is not just about who won, but what the people’s participation reveals — about hope, resistance, and the unresolved search for self-determination.
Election at a Glance
Election Phases & Regional Dynamics
The 2024 Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly election was held in three phases. Phase 1 showed strong urban engagement, Phases 2 and 3 consolidated the mandate with notable rural participation.
Phase 1: Urban Awakening
Date: September 18, 2024
Turnout: 61.38%
Key Areas: Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla
Urban centers exhibited strong electoral engagement with a strong call for political change and self-determination.
Detailed Phase 1 Analysis →Phase 2: Rural Momentum
Date: September 25, 2024
Turnout: 56.05%
Key Areas: Rural constituencies of Baramulla and Kupwara
Rural areas demonstrated significant momentum, supporting calls for local governance and regional autonomy.
Detailed Phase 2 Analysis →Phase 3: Consolidation of the Mandate
Date: October 1, 2024
Turnout: 69.69%
Key Areas: Rural and peri-urban constituencies
The final phase witnessed a consolidation of the mandate with record-breaking turnout in key rural regions.
Detailed Phase 3 Analysis →J&K Election Mandate Analysis
The electoral mandate in Jammu & Kashmir is more than a count of votes — it is a reflection of the region’s diverse political voices, emerging aspirations, and ongoing shifts in public sentiment. As Jammu and Kashmir navigate post-Article 370 realities, the voting patterns reveal contrasting priorities between regions, rising youth engagement, and the re-emergence of local political narratives.
Key Constituency Battles
Explore major constituencies that shaped the electoral landscape of Jammu & Kashmir in 2024.
Biggest Victory Margin
Budgam
Omar Abdullah
36,812 votes
Closest Contest
Kulgam
Mohammad Yousuf Bhat
127 votes
Highest Voter Turnout
Sopore
78.6%
Tariq Ahmad Bhat
Voter Demographics Analysis
Explore detailed electoral participation among gender, age, and regional groups across Jammu & Kashmir.
Gender Participation Trends
- Male Voters: 65.0% ↑ 2.5%
- Female Voters: 55.3% ↑ 5.0%
- Third Gender: N/A Not Recorded
Female voter turnout has steadily improved, showing growing political engagement.
Age Group Participation
- 18-25 Years: 52.8% ↑ 4.5%
- 26-40 Years: 60.6% ↑ 3.0%
- 41+ Years: 67.5% ↑ 1.2%
Higher turnout is seen in older age groups, though youth participation is increasing.
Regional Voting Patterns
- Kashmir Valley: 58.2% ↑ 6.7%
- Jammu Region: 65.0% ↑ 3.5%
- Ladakh Region: 49.5% ↑ 2.0%
Voting trends reflect regional political preferences and security dynamics.
Historical Comparison
An exploration of how the 2024 results compare with previous elections, highlighting shifts in voter behavior and political realignment in Kashmir.
JKNC’s Resurgence
The increase from 15 seats in past elections to 42 seats in 2024 reflects a decisive call for change among the Kashmiri electorate.
Emergence of Independent Mandate
The rise to 29 seats for independent voices showcases the people’s demand for an end to traditional partisan divides and a move toward self-determination.
Shifts in Voter Dynamics
With a record turnout of 63.88%, the electoral dynamics have shifted dramatically, driven by increased youth participation and widespread civic awakening.
Expert Analysis
Leading Kashmiri analysts offer insights on the implications of the historic mandate and what it means for the future of an independent Kashmir.
Professor Rekha Chowdhary
Political Analyst, University of Kashmir
Read Full Analysis →Dr. Hamid Mirza
Senior Researcher, Kashmiri Institute of Policy Studies
Read Full Analysis →