The Nagrota Assembly constituency achieved an impressive 75.08 percent voter turnout in the by-election held on November 7, as confirmed by the Election Commission. All 150 polling stations reported peaceful voting, ensuring a secure electoral process for the local populace.
The fate of 10 candidates, including BJP’s Devyani Rana, NC’s Shamim Begum, JKNPP-I’s Harshdev Singh, and Independent Anil Sharma, now rests in the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Counting of the votes is scheduled for November 14.
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sanjeev Verma expressed satisfaction with the event, stating in an interview with Daily Excelsior that the polling remained “completely peaceful and smooth.” Verma toured several polling stations and commended the facilities, which included provisions for wheelchairs, drinking water, and efficient queue management.
Despite minor technical issues with one or two EVMs, officials assured that the polling process resumed without delays. This swift response highlights the efficiency of the election machinery.
Comparison to Previous Elections
Voter turnout figures for this by-election nearly matched the 2024 Assembly election turnout of 77.66%, underscoring the active engagement of the electorate. Last year, BJP’s Devender Singh Rana won with 48,113 votes, while NC’s Joginder Singh garnered only 17,641 votes, reflecting a significant disparity between the two main party candidates. In total, the 2024 elections saw 74,083 votes cast.
This by-election saw a similarly robust voter turnout, with a revised electorate numbering around 98,000.
Security Measures in Place
Comprehensive security arrangements ensured voter safety, with substantial deployments of paramilitary and police personnel at sensitive polling locations. Observers from the Election Commission, including General, Police, and Expenditure observers, closely monitored numerous booths, ensuring adherence to electoral protocols.
Following the conclusion of voting at 6 pm, the EVMs were securely transported to designated strong rooms. These rooms will remain under constant surveillance until the counting day.
Technological Advancements in Polling
With an emphasis on modernity, the election underwent significant technological integration. For the first time, presiding officers used the Presiding Officer App from the ECI’s Integrated ECTNet. This innovation effectively minimized human error and reporting delays, facilitating a smoother electoral process.
Reason for the By-Poll
The necessity for this by-election arose from the unexpected death of BJP stalwart Devender Singh Rana, who passed away shortly after winning the Assembly seat in 2024. The BJP nominated his daughter, Devyani Rana, an Economics graduate from the University of California, who campaigned on principles of “professional and inclusive development.”
NC’s Shamim Begum, a seated DDC member, relied heavily on her grassroots connections and party organisational strength to attract voters. Meanwhile, Harshdev Singh, a former minister and first-time Nagrota candidate, presented himself as an “alternative voice.” Independent candidate Anil Sharma, a former Sarpanch, targeted local support through welfare promises.
Voter Sentiments
Voter turnout peaked as long queues formed outside polling stations after 9 am, spurred by pleasant weather. At Kol Kandoli polling station, voters expressed their determination to continue the steady development pace in the Nagrota region.
Political Landscape
The Nagrota constituency has switched allegiances between the BJP and NC over the past five elections since 1996—BJP winning in 2002, 2008, and 2024, while NC took victory in 1996 and 2014. Notably, the Congress party refrained from fielding a candidate and chose to distance itself from NC’s campaign despite their alliance at the Union Territory level.
The current by-election, alongside Budgam, will fill two vacancies in the 90-member Jammu & Kashmir Assembly, which presently accommodates 88 sitting MLAs. These vacancies have arisen from the recent demise of Devender Singh Rana and the resignation of former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who vacated Budgam after retaining Ganderbal.
