Just hours before the mortal remains of Lance Naik Ranjeet Singh were consigned to flames at his ancestral village in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, his wife delivered a baby girl-- the first child of the couple after a wait of 10 years.&nbsp;

The soldier was among the three personnel of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry who fell to the bullets of Pakistani intruders along the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district on Sunday.&nbsp;

Two heavily-armed Pakistani infiltrators, believed to be members of the border action team, were also killed in the gunfight.&nbsp;

The tricolour-wrapped coffin carrying the body of the 36-year-old soldier reached his Suligam village on Monday after a wreath-laying ceremony at Akhnoor Garrison.

But due to some delay, the cremation could not take place and the family decided to perform the last rites on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

However, his pregnant wife Shimu Devi developed labour pain at around midnight and was admitted to district hospital where she delivered the baby girl at around 5 am, officials said.&nbsp;

They said Devi along with the newborn was taken to the cremation ground Chamba-Seri in an ambulance for the last glimpse of her husband. Later, the last rites of the soldier were performed with full military honours, the officials said.&nbsp;

The soldier waited for 10 years for the birth of his first child but destiny had something else in store for him, Vijay Kumar, a local resident known to the family, said.&nbsp;

Singh had joined the Army in 2003 and was planning to take a leave to be with his wife who was expecting a baby anytime, he said.&nbsp;

The entire village is in deep mourning but the arrival of the child is expected to help the family to overcome the grief, Kumar added.&nbsp;

The soldier is survived by his parents, three younger sisters and as many brothers who live in a joint family.

Just hours before the mortal remains of Lance Naik Ranjeet Singh were consigned to flames at his ancestral village in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, his wife delivered a baby girl-- the first child of the couple after a wait of 10 years.

Just hours before the mortal remains of Lance Naik Ranjeet Singh were consigned to flames at his ancestral village in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday, his wife delivered a baby girl-- the first child of the couple after a wait of 10 years. The soldier was among the three personnel of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry who fell to the bullets of Pakistani intruders along the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district on Sunday. Two heavily-armed Pakistani infiltrators, believed to be members of the border action team, were also killed in the gunfight. The tricolour-wrapped coffin carrying the body of the 36-year-old soldier reached his Suligam village on Monday after a wreath-laying ceremony at Akhnoor Garrison. But due to some delay, the cremation could not take place and the family decided to perform the last rites on Tuesday morning. However, his pregnant wife Shimu Devi developed labour pain at around midnight and was admitted to district hospital where she delivered the baby girl at around 5 am, officials said. They said Devi along with the newborn was taken to the cremation ground Chamba-Seri in an ambulance for the last glimpse of her husband. Later, the last rites of the soldier were performed with full military honours, the officials said. The soldier waited for 10 years for the birth of his first child but destiny had something else in store for him, Vijay Kumar, a local resident known to the family, said. Singh had joined the Army in 2003 and was planning to take a leave to be with his wife who was expecting a baby anytime, he said. The entire village is in deep mourning but the arrival of the child is expected to help the family to overcome the grief, Kumar added. The soldier is survived by his parents, three younger sisters and as many brothers who live in a joint family.

Wife of soldier killed in J&K delivers baby hours before his cremation

Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter between militants and security forces in Kulgam's Larro area in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. &nbsp;

The identity of the slain militants is being ascertained, a police official said.

''The encounter concluded just now and I have been told that three terrorists were neutralised in it. The operation is being wound up,'' DGP Dilbag Singh said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Harmeet Singh, SSP, Kulgam said that the exchange with the terrorists started yesterday.&nbsp;

''The terrorists are unidentified so far and are inside a house now. Further details will be given after the encounter concludes,'' Singh said earlier.

The encounter broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district.

A cordon and search operation was launched in the Laroo area in south Kashmir in the morning following specific information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said.

He said as the forces were conducting searches, the militants fired on them, and an encounter broke out.

Meanwhile, some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to civilians immediately after the encounter. According to police, the civilians visited the encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request from Army personnel not to do so as a search was underway.&nbsp;

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Civilians visited the encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request not to visit, as a thorough search was underway. After forces withdrew, some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to civilians: J&amp;K Police on Kulgam encounter.
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Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter between militants and security forces in Kulgam's Larro area in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The identity of the slain militants is being ascertained, a police official said.

Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter between militants and security forces in Kulgam's Larro area in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The identity of the slain militants is being ascertained, a police official said. ''The encounter concluded just now and I have been told that three terrorists were neutralised in it. The operation is being wound up,'' DGP Dilbag Singh said. Earlier, Harmeet Singh, SSP, Kulgam said that the exchange with the terrorists started yesterday. ''The terrorists are unidentified so far and are inside a house now. Further details will be given after the encounter concludes,'' Singh said earlier. The encounter broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district. A cordon and search operation was launched in the Laroo area in south Kashmir in the morning following specific information about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said. He said as the forces were conducting searches, the militants fired on them, and an encounter broke out. Meanwhile, some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to civilians immediately after the encounter. According to police, the civilians visited the encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request from Army personnel not to do so as a search was underway. Civilians visited the encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request not to visit, as a thorough search was underway. After forces withdrew, some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to civilians: J&K Police on Kulgam encounter. — ANI (@ANI) October 21, 2018 ×

Jammu and Kashmir: 3 terrorists killed in encounter

Separatists in the Kashmir valley have called for a strike on Monday over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district.

The strike has been called by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL).

Three militants were killed Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Kulgam district, while six civilians lost their lives in a blast following the gunfight there.

Officials said immediately after the gunfight ended and the forces withdrew from the spot, civilians rushed to the encounter site where an explosive substance went off resulting in death of six civilians.

"To strongly condemn &amp; (and) protest the mayhem unleashed in Kulgam by the ruthless Indian state in which so far 5 (five) civilians &amp; 3 (three) armed youth killed besides injuries to tens of scores of injured, JRL calls for complete #Shutdown tomorrow, JRL will hold a #ProtestSitin (protest sit-in) on Tuesday at LaL Chowk," Farooq posted on Twitter before the toll was updated.

"Amidst internet &amp; news blackout reports of #BloodbathInKulgam as Indian forces go berserk! Many civilian casualties reported, 3 armed youth martyred more than sixty civilians injured many critical! Homes destroyed, women ruthlessly beaten! All roads to the area sealed, media barred!" Farooq said in another tweet.

Meanwhile, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and a Kashmiri Pandit organisation have extended their support to the strike called by the separatists. "In an emergency meeting held Sunday, the executive committee of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed its shock and concern at the sharp increase in the use of brutal force against the unarmed civilians of Kashmir," a statement by the KCCI said.

Condemning the incident, the KCCI said the business community of Kashmir once again urges the government to "restrain from launching operations in civilian areas which invariably trigger more killings and worsening of the law and order situation".

"The seemingly endless loss of innocent Kashmiri lives is a matter of pain and anguish for all of us. The KCCI offers its deepest condolences to the families of innocent unarmed civilians and requests the business community to observe a complete shutdown on Monday as a mark of protest against the brutalisation of our population," it said in a statement here.

The Kashmiri Pandit Sangarash Samiti (KPSS) also extended its support to the strike called by the separatists, saying it is mandatory for security forces to sanitise the area where encounter takes place to safeguard the lives of the civilians.

"We feel the pain of killing of civilians and injuries during cordon and search operation in Kulgam," KPSS president Sanjay Tickoo said in a statement here.

"It seems that the security forces take these basic things casually, which resulted in Sunday's incident. While Kashmir is being pushed back to the 1990 era by people's alienating policies by the political parties, the Central establishment is enjoying the so called victory in the Kashmir valley and is not bothered to diffuse current political turmoil in the valley," he said.

Separatists in the Kashmir valley have called for a strike on Monday over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district. The strike has been called by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL).

Separatists in the Kashmir valley have called for a strike on Monday over the death of civilians in a blast at an encounter site in Kulgam district. The strike has been called by separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL). Three militants were killed Sunday in an encounter with security forces in Kulgam district, while six civilians lost their lives in a blast following the gunfight there. Officials said immediately after the gunfight ended and the forces withdrew from the spot, civilians rushed to the encounter site where an explosive substance went off resulting in death of six civilians. "To strongly condemn & (and) protest the mayhem unleashed in Kulgam by the ruthless Indian state in which so far 5 (five) civilians & 3 (three) armed youth killed besides injuries to tens of scores of injured, JRL calls for complete #Shutdown tomorrow, JRL will hold a #ProtestSitin (protest sit-in) on Tuesday at LaL Chowk," Farooq posted on Twitter before the toll was updated. "Amidst internet & news blackout reports of #BloodbathInKulgam as Indian forces go berserk! Many civilian casualties reported, 3 armed youth martyred more than sixty civilians injured many critical! Homes destroyed, women ruthlessly beaten! All roads to the area sealed, media barred!" Farooq said in another tweet. Meanwhile, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and a Kashmiri Pandit organisation have extended their support to the strike called by the separatists. "In an emergency meeting held Sunday, the executive committee of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed its shock and concern at the sharp increase in the use of brutal force against the unarmed civilians of Kashmir," a statement by the KCCI said. Condemning the incident, the KCCI said the business community of Kashmir once again urges the government to "restrain from launching operations in civilian areas which invariably trigger more killings and worsening of the law and order situation". "The seemingly endless loss of innocent Kashmiri lives is a matter of pain and anguish for all of us. The KCCI offers its deepest condolences to the families of innocent unarmed civilians and requests the business community to observe a complete shutdown on Monday as a mark of protest against the brutalisation of our population," it said in a statement here. The Kashmiri Pandit Sangarash Samiti (KPSS) also extended its support to the strike called by the separatists, saying it is mandatory for security forces to sanitise the area where encounter takes place to safeguard the lives of the civilians. "We feel the pain of killing of civilians and injuries during cordon and search operation in Kulgam," KPSS president Sanjay Tickoo said in a statement here. "It seems that the security forces take these basic things casually, which resulted in Sunday's incident. While Kashmir is being pushed back to the 1990 era by people's alienating policies by the political parties, the Central establishment is enjoying the so called victory in the Kashmir valley and is not bothered to diffuse current political turmoil in the valley," he said.

J&K: Separatists call for strike on Monday after death of civilians in Kulgam

Six civilians were killed in a blast after an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam. Three militants were killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

News reports quoted police as saying they had been tipped off about the presence of militants in the Laroo area. The police added that security forces were fired upon as they began conducting a cordon-and-search operation.&nbsp;

"Despite requests to not visit the spot till thorough search is done for explosives, several civilians visited the encounter site immediately after the operation. While they were there, some explosive substance went off, resulting in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-3-militants-killed-in-encounter-in-kulgam-1-civilian-dead-172616">on-spot</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-3-militants-killed-in-encounter-in-kulgam-1-civilian-dead-172616"> death of a civilian</a> and injuries to several others," PTI quoted a police official as saying.&nbsp;

The official added that the injured persons were rushed to various hospitals for treatment but that five of them died from their injuries.&nbsp;

That meant a total of six civilian deaths. News reports said a total of 40 people were injured.&nbsp;

The reports added that the deaths had led to anger among the civilian population.&nbsp;

The police official said clashes broke out between groups of youths and security forces in the area and that they were continuing when last reports came in.

"Police had to use some force to quell the protests and about two dozen persons were injured in the clashes," the official said.

PTI added that adviser to the Governor, K Vijay Kumar, and DGP Dilbag Singh have expressed regret over the loss of civilian lives and conveyed their profound condolences to the bereaved families.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Six civilians were killed in a blast after an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam. Three militants were killed in the encounter. News reports quoted police as saying they had been tipped off about the presence of militants in the Laroo area.

Six civilians were killed in a blast after an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam. Three militants were killed in the encounter. News reports quoted police as saying they had been tipped off about the presence of militants in the Laroo area. The police added that security forces were fired upon as they began conducting a cordon-and-search operation. "Despite requests to not visit the spot till thorough search is done for explosives, several civilians visited the encounter site immediately after the operation. While they were there, some explosive substance went off, resulting in on-spot death of a civilian and injuries to several others," PTI quoted a police official as saying. The official added that the injured persons were rushed to various hospitals for treatment but that five of them died from their injuries. That meant a total of six civilian deaths. News reports said a total of 40 people were injured. The reports added that the deaths had led to anger among the civilian population. The police official said clashes broke out between groups of youths and security forces in the area and that they were continuing when last reports came in. "Police had to use some force to quell the protests and about two dozen persons were injured in the clashes," the official said. PTI added that adviser to the Governor, K Vijay Kumar, and DGP Dilbag Singh have expressed regret over the loss of civilian lives and conveyed their profound condolences to the bereaved families. (With inputs from PTI)

Kashmir: Six civilians killed in blast after encounter leaves 3 militants dead

The BJP Saturday failed to open its account in Jammu and Kashmir's Ladakh region in the urban local body elections held earlier this month.

Out of the total 26 wards in this region, the Congress bagged all the 13 seats in Leh municipal committee. It also won five wards in neighbouring Kargil district, election officials said.

Six seats in the region have gone to independent candidates, while the result of only two seats is awaited, they said.&nbsp;

The Ladakh Lok Sabha constituency is represented by BJP's Thupstan Chhewang, but the Congress had won three of the four assembly segments in the parliamentary constituency in the state polls held in 2014. The other assembly segment is represented by an independent MLA.

In the 208 wards that went to polls in Kashmir division in the four-phased elections earlier this month, the Congress has won 70 wards so far followed by 53 wards by independents. The BJP has managed to win only 21 seats, while the Janata Dal (United) bagged one seat, the officials added. 
&nbsp;

The BJP Saturday failed to open its account in Jammu and Kashmir's Ladakh region in the urban local body elections held earlier this month. Out of the total 26 wards in this region, the Congress bagged all the 13 seats in Leh municipal committee.

The BJP Saturday failed to open its account in Jammu and Kashmir's Ladakh region in the urban local body elections held earlier this month. Out of the total 26 wards in this region, the Congress bagged all the 13 seats in Leh municipal committee. It also won five wards in neighbouring Kargil district, election officials said. Six seats in the region have gone to independent candidates, while the result of only two seats is awaited, they said. The Ladakh Lok Sabha constituency is represented by BJP's Thupstan Chhewang, but the Congress had won three of the four assembly segments in the parliamentary constituency in the state polls held in 2014. The other assembly segment is represented by an independent MLA. In the 208 wards that went to polls in Kashmir division in the four-phased elections earlier this month, the Congress has won 70 wards so far followed by 53 wards by independents. The BJP has managed to win only 21 seats, while the Janata Dal (United) bagged one seat, the officials added.

J&K polls: BJP fails to open account in Ladakh region

At least seven soldiers sustained injuries when militants triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) in Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama district, police said on Friday.

The explosion took place when an armoured Army vehicle was passing through the Tahab area at around 9.30 p.m., on Thursday, the report added.

"The IED explosion was followed by firing by the militants. Troops inside the Casper vehicle retaliated and a brief firing exchange took place," police sources said.&nbsp;

Of the seven soldiers, three with serious injuries were airlifted to an Army hospital in Srinagar. 
&nbsp;

At least seven soldiers sustained injuries when militants triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) in Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama district, police said on Friday.

At least seven soldiers sustained injuries when militants triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) in Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama district, police said on Friday. The explosion took place when an armoured Army vehicle was passing through the Tahab area at around 9.30 p.m., on Thursday, the report added. "The IED explosion was followed by firing by the militants. Troops inside the Casper vehicle retaliated and a brief firing exchange took place," police sources said. Of the seven soldiers, three with serious injuries were airlifted to an Army hospital in Srinagar.

7 soldiers injured in Jammu and Kashmir IED explosion

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the city on Wednesday, prompting authorities to close down schools and snap internet services, an official said.

Security forces had launched a cordon and search operation in Fateh Kadal area of the city following an information about the presence of terrorists&nbsp;there, he said.

A policeman was also injured during the encounter, a senior police officer said.

The operation turned into an encounter after the&nbsp;terrorists&nbsp;opened fire on security forces.

The operation was going on till last reports came in.&nbsp;

The district administration has closed all schools and educational institution in the city as a precautionary measure and internet services on moblie have also been snapped.

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the city on Wednesday, prompting authorities to close down schools and snap internet services, an official said.

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the city on Wednesday, prompting authorities to close down schools and snap internet services, an official said. Security forces had launched a cordon and search operation in Fateh Kadal area of the city following an information about the presence of terrorists there, he said. A policeman was also injured during the encounter, a senior police officer said. The operation turned into an encounter after the terrorists opened fire on security forces. The operation was going on till last reports came in. The district administration has closed all schools and educational institution in the city as a precautionary measure and internet services on moblie have also been snapped.

Encounter underway in J&K; 3 terrorists killed

The fourth and final phase of the urban local body polls in 36 wards in central Kashmir's Srinagar and Ganderbal districts has begun.

Polling began at 6 am and is slated to end at 4 pm. In the final phase, the electorate will seal the fate of 150 candidates in Srinagar and Ganderbal districts. As many as 260 candidates will be contesting for 132 wards.

In the wake of the polls, security has been beefed up at polling stations, while checkpoints have been set up in Srinagar and Ganderbal, where vehicles and commuters are being searched thoroughly to ensure seamless completion of polls.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Voting underway for the fourth phase of urban local body polls; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from a polling station in Ganderbal <a href="https://t.co/Fj07FZ4xnl">pic.twitter.com/Fj07FZ4xnl</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1052014250573656064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Among the three polling phases, maximum voter turnout was recorded in the first phase in Jammu and Kashmir (56.7 per cent), while least voter turnout was registered during the third phase (16.4 per cent).

The fight is between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as Jammu and Kashmir's two major parties- National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Alliance (PDP)- have boycotted the elections over lack of clarity in the Centre's stand on Articles 35A.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: High-speed mobile internet services suspended in South and central Kashmir including Srinagar due to fourth phase of urban local body polls.
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Article 35A disallows people from residing in Jammu and Kashmir, buying or owning immovable property in the state, settling permanently, or getting state government jobs.

Counting of votes cast during all four phases will be done on October 20. 
&nbsp;

The fourth and final phase of the urban local body polls in 36 wards in central Kashmir's Srinagar and Ganderbal districts has begun. Polling began at 6 am and is slated to end at 4 pm.

The fourth and final phase of the urban local body polls in 36 wards in central Kashmir's Srinagar and Ganderbal districts has begun. Polling began at 6 am and is slated to end at 4 pm. In the final phase, the electorate will seal the fate of 150 candidates in Srinagar and Ganderbal districts. As many as 260 candidates will be contesting for 132 wards. In the wake of the polls, security has been beefed up at polling stations, while checkpoints have been set up in Srinagar and Ganderbal, where vehicles and commuters are being searched thoroughly to ensure seamless completion of polls. Jammu & Kashmir: Voting underway for the fourth phase of urban local body polls; #Visuals from a polling station in Ganderbal pic.twitter.com/Fj07FZ4xnl — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2018 × Among the three polling phases, maximum voter turnout was recorded in the first phase in Jammu and Kashmir (56.7 per cent), while least voter turnout was registered during the third phase (16.4 per cent). The fight is between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as Jammu and Kashmir's two major parties- National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Alliance (PDP)- have boycotted the elections over lack of clarity in the Centre's stand on Articles 35A. Jammu & Kashmir: High-speed mobile internet services suspended in South and central Kashmir including Srinagar due to fourth phase of urban local body polls. — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2018 × Article 35A disallows people from residing in Jammu and Kashmir, buying or owning immovable property in the state, settling permanently, or getting state government jobs. Counting of votes cast during all four phases will be done on October 20.

J&K municipal polls: Final phase of voting begins

Ganderbal recorded 7.9 per cent voter turnout in the final phase of Jammu and Kashmir municipal elections on Tuesday till 12pm, news agency ANI reported. Srinagar registered 2.3 per cent voter turnout.

Polling began at 6 am and is slated to end at 4 pm. In the final phase, the electorate will seal the fate of 150 candidates in Srinagar and Ganderbal districts. As many as 260 candidates will be contesting for 132 wards.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Voter turnout recorded in Ganderbal is 7.9% &amp; Srinagar is 2.3% till 12 noon, in the fourth phase of urban local body elections.
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In the wake of the polls, security has been beefed up at polling stations, while checkpoints have been set up in Srinagar and Ganderbal, where vehicles and commuters are being searched thoroughly to ensure seamless completion of polls.

Among the three polling phases, maximum voter turnout was recorded in the first phase in Jammu and Kashmir (56.7 per cent), while least voter turnout was registered during the third phase (16.4 per cent).

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: Voting underway for the fourth phase of urban local body polls; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from a polling station in Srinagar. <a href="https://t.co/z435VxrAf5">pic.twitter.com/z435VxrAf5</a>
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The fight is between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as Jammu and Kashmir's two major parties- National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Alliance (PDP)- have boycotted the elections over lack of clarity in the Centre's stand on Articles 35A.

Counting of votes cast during all four phases will be done on October 20.

Ganderbal recorded 7.9 per cent voter turnout in the final phase of Jammu and Kashmir municipal elections on Tuesday till 12pm, news agency ANI reported. Srinagar registered 2.

Ganderbal recorded 7.9 per cent voter turnout in the final phase of Jammu and Kashmir municipal elections on Tuesday till 12pm, news agency ANI reported. Srinagar registered 2.3 per cent voter turnout. Polling began at 6 am and is slated to end at 4 pm. In the final phase, the electorate will seal the fate of 150 candidates in Srinagar and Ganderbal districts. As many as 260 candidates will be contesting for 132 wards. Jammu & Kashmir: Voter turnout recorded in Ganderbal is 7.9% & Srinagar is 2.3% till 12 noon, in the fourth phase of urban local body elections. — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2018 × In the wake of the polls, security has been beefed up at polling stations, while checkpoints have been set up in Srinagar and Ganderbal, where vehicles and commuters are being searched thoroughly to ensure seamless completion of polls. Among the three polling phases, maximum voter turnout was recorded in the first phase in Jammu and Kashmir (56.7 per cent), while least voter turnout was registered during the third phase (16.4 per cent). #JammuAndKashmir: Voting underway for the fourth phase of urban local body polls; #Visuals from a polling station in Srinagar. pic.twitter.com/z435VxrAf5 — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2018 × The fight is between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as Jammu and Kashmir's two major parties- National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Alliance (PDP)- have boycotted the elections over lack of clarity in the Centre's stand on Articles 35A. Counting of votes cast during all four phases will be done on October 20.

J&K local body polls: 7.9% voter turnout in Ganderbal till 12pm, Srinagar registers 2.3%

Safakadal, a ward in the city's old town, and Chanapora, in the Civil Lines, polled less than 10 votes each in the third phase of the urban local body elections in which 20 municipal wards went to polls Saturday.

The polling, which began at 6 am and ended at 4 pm saw 11 Srinagar Municipal Corporation wards recording less than 100 votes, and at the end of the day only 2,827 of the over 1.53 lakh voters exercised their franchise in the polls that have been boycotted by mainstream political parties such as the National Conference and its arch rival the PDP.&nbsp;

Safakadal, which has a total electorate of 9,062, saw two voters turning out in the first hour of the polling and an addition of one more in the last hour taking the total number of votes polled to three.

There was minor incident of stone pelting in this area and police had to use mild force to disperse the unruly mob, officials said.

Chanapora, which has an electorate of 10,000, had polled only two votes till 1 pm with an addition of only six more votes to end with a tally of eight by the close of polling.

The posh Rajbagh area of the city saw only 19 voters turning up at the polling stations to register their choice of candidate while as nearby Ikhrajpora polled a much higher tally of 149 votes.

The historic Lal Chowk, which has an electoral strength 5,827, saw only 71 voters exercise their franchise during the day.

Daulatabad and Makhdoom Sahib in the old city, which fall in the Khanyar assembly segment represented by National Conference general secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar, saw a comparatively 'good' turnout.

Daulatabad registered 596 out of the total 8,431 eligible votes while Makhdoom Sahib -- which houses the revered shrine of Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom --saw 550 of the 6,132 eligible votes getting cast.

As many as 36 voters turned out to cast their votes at Hyderpora ward, where hardline Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani lives.&nbsp;

Safakadal, a ward in the city's old town, and Chanapora, in the Civil Lines, polled less than 10 votes each in the third phase of the urban local body elections in which 20 municipal wards went to polls Saturday.

Safakadal, a ward in the city's old town, and Chanapora, in the Civil Lines, polled less than 10 votes each in the third phase of the urban local body elections in which 20 municipal wards went to polls Saturday. The polling, which began at 6 am and ended at 4 pm saw 11 Srinagar Municipal Corporation wards recording less than 100 votes, and at the end of the day only 2,827 of the over 1.53 lakh voters exercised their franchise in the polls that have been boycotted by mainstream political parties such as the National Conference and its arch rival the PDP. Safakadal, which has a total electorate of 9,062, saw two voters turning out in the first hour of the polling and an addition of one more in the last hour taking the total number of votes polled to three. There was minor incident of stone pelting in this area and police had to use mild force to disperse the unruly mob, officials said. Chanapora, which has an electorate of 10,000, had polled only two votes till 1 pm with an addition of only six more votes to end with a tally of eight by the close of polling. The posh Rajbagh area of the city saw only 19 voters turning up at the polling stations to register their choice of candidate while as nearby Ikhrajpora polled a much higher tally of 149 votes. The historic Lal Chowk, which has an electoral strength 5,827, saw only 71 voters exercise their franchise during the day. Daulatabad and Makhdoom Sahib in the old city, which fall in the Khanyar assembly segment represented by National Conference general secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar, saw a comparatively 'good' turnout. Daulatabad registered 596 out of the total 8,431 eligible votes while Makhdoom Sahib -- which houses the revered shrine of Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom --saw 550 of the 6,132 eligible votes getting cast. As many as 36 voters turned out to cast their votes at Hyderpora ward, where hardline Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani lives.

J&K municipal polls: Safakadal, Chanapora wards record less than 10 votes each in third phase

Voting for the third phase of urban local body polls is underway in Kashmir amid the tight security arrangement by election authorities.

The polling began at 6 am and expected to conclude at 4 pm, PTI reported.

At least 2 lakh 35 thousand voters are expected to exercise their franchise in the third phase of the polls.

Of the 40 wards going to polls on Saturday, 20 falls in Srinagar city's downtown area, where the voter turnout has been generally low since the eruption of militancy in the state in 1989.

The wards in downtown city going to polls are Khanqah-e-Mualla, Maharajgunj, Jamia Masjid, Makhdoom Sahib, Khwaja Bazaar, Aqilmir Khanyar, Rozabal, Daulatabad, Islamyarbal, Nawab Bazaar, Nawa Kadal, Safakadal, Rathpora, Edigah, Palpora and Tarabal.

Ten other wards in the civil lines area of the city, where polling will be held on Saturday, are Lal Chowk, Rajbagh, Ikhrajpora, Mehjoor Nagar, Natipora, Chanapora, Budshah Nagar, Baghat Barzulla, Hyderpora and Rawalpora.

The voting for the second phase of the urban local body polls in Jammu and Kashmir took place on Wednesday. The polls received about 80 per cent of voter turnout in Jammu while it was 3.4 per cent came out to vote in Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Valley witnessed a low voter turnout in the first phase of municipal polls which concluded on October 8. The first phase of elections saw 70 per cent voter turnout in Jammu region and 8.2 per cent in the Valley.

The four-phase urban local body elections began on October 8 and will end on October 16.

Meanwhile, the National Conference, the PDP and the CPI(M) have boycotted the polls due to the legal challenge to Article 35-A of the Constitution in the Supreme Court.

(With inputs from news agencies)

Voting for the third phase of urban local body polls is underway in Kashmir amid the tight security arrangement by election authorities. The polling began at 6 am and expected to conclude at 4 pm, PTI reported.

Voting for the third phase of urban local body polls is underway in Kashmir amid the tight security arrangement by election authorities. The polling began at 6 am and expected to conclude at 4 pm, PTI reported. At least 2 lakh 35 thousand voters are expected to exercise their franchise in the third phase of the polls. Of the 40 wards going to polls on Saturday, 20 falls in Srinagar city's downtown area, where the voter turnout has been generally low since the eruption of militancy in the state in 1989. The wards in downtown city going to polls are Khanqah-e-Mualla, Maharajgunj, Jamia Masjid, Makhdoom Sahib, Khwaja Bazaar, Aqilmir Khanyar, Rozabal, Daulatabad, Islamyarbal, Nawab Bazaar, Nawa Kadal, Safakadal, Rathpora, Edigah, Palpora and Tarabal. Ten other wards in the civil lines area of the city, where polling will be held on Saturday, are Lal Chowk, Rajbagh, Ikhrajpora, Mehjoor Nagar, Natipora, Chanapora, Budshah Nagar, Baghat Barzulla, Hyderpora and Rawalpora. The voting for the second phase of the urban local body polls in Jammu and Kashmir took place on Wednesday. The polls received about 80 per cent of voter turnout in Jammu while it was 3.4 per cent came out to vote in Kashmir. The Valley witnessed a low voter turnout in the first phase of municipal polls which concluded on October 8. The first phase of elections saw 70 per cent voter turnout in Jammu region and 8.2 per cent in the Valley. The four-phase urban local body elections began on October 8 and will end on October 16. Meanwhile, the National Conference, the PDP and the CPI(M) have boycotted the polls due to the legal challenge to Article 35-A of the Constitution in the Supreme Court. (With inputs from news agencies)

J&K: Voting underway for third phase of urban local body polls

An encounter is underway between security forces and terrorists Handwara town of Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the report, two to three terrorists are believed to be trapped.

The area has now been cordoned off by the security officials.

Internet services are also suspended in the area.

Further details regarding the encounter are awaited.

A number of militants have been killed by security forces in recent months, including the Lashkar's Abu Dujana and the Hizbul's Sabzar Ahmed Bhat, indicating a ramping up of anti-militant activity. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch on Wednesday. One soldier has been injured in the incident.

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Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch last night. One jawan injured <a href="https://t.co/IfMdVuFHv6">pic.twitter.com/IfMdVuFHv6</a>
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Last month, three simultaneous encounters were reported between terrorists and security personnel in several areas of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The encounters were reported from Dooru Shahabad in Anantnag district, Noorbagh in Srinagar city, and Chadoora in Budgam district.

One terrorist was killed in Dooru and two were killed in the Budgam encounter.

&nbsp;

An encounter is underway between security forces and terrorists Handwara town of Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. According to the report, two to three terrorists are believed to be trapped.

An encounter is underway between security forces and terrorists Handwara town of Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. According to the report, two to three terrorists are believed to be trapped. The area has now been cordoned off by the security officials. Internet services are also suspended in the area. Further details regarding the encounter are awaited. A number of militants have been killed by security forces in recent months, including the Lashkar's Abu Dujana and the Hizbul's Sabzar Ahmed Bhat, indicating a ramping up of anti-militant activity. Meanwhile, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch on Wednesday. One soldier has been injured in the incident. Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch last night. One jawan injured pic.twitter.com/IfMdVuFHv6 — ANI (@ANI) October 11, 2018 × Last month, three simultaneous encounters were reported between terrorists and security personnel in several areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The encounters were reported from Dooru Shahabad in Anantnag district, Noorbagh in Srinagar city, and Chadoora in Budgam district. One terrorist was killed in Dooru and two were killed in the Budgam encounter.

J&K: Encounter between security forces and terrorists underway in Kupwara

At least two terrorists were gunned in Handwara town of Kupwara district in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday in an ongoing encounter between security officials and terrorists.

According to a report by ANI, arms and ammunition were recovered.&nbsp;

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Two terrorists killed in Handwara encounter. Arms and ammunition recovered. Identities of the slain terrorists are yet to be ascertained. Operation continues: J&amp;K police <a href="https://t.co/0WKsON9bEH">https://t.co/0WKsON9bEH</a>
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Identities of the slain terrorists are yet to be ascertained.

The area has now been cordoned off by the security officials.

Internet services are also suspended in the area.

As the operation is still underway,&nbsp;further details regarding the encounter are awaited.

A number of militants have been killed by security forces in recent months, including the Lashkar's Abu Dujana and the Hizbul's Sabzar Ahmed Bhat, indicating a ramping up of anti-militant activity. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch on Wednesday. One soldier has been injured in the incident.

Last month, three simultaneous encounters were reported between terrorists and security personnel in several areas of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The encounters were reported from Dooru Shahabad in Anantnag district, Noorbagh in Srinagar city, and Chadoora in Budgam district.

One terrorist was killed in Dooru and two were killed in the Budgam encounter.

At least two terrorists were gunned in Handwara town of Kupwara district in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday in an ongoing encounter between security officials and terrorists.

At least two terrorists were gunned in Handwara town of Kupwara district in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday in an ongoing encounter between security officials and terrorists. According to a report by ANI, arms and ammunition were recovered. Two terrorists killed in Handwara encounter. Arms and ammunition recovered. Identities of the slain terrorists are yet to be ascertained. Operation continues: J&K police https://t.co/0WKsON9bEH — ANI (@ANI) October 11, 2018 × Identities of the slain terrorists are yet to be ascertained. The area has now been cordoned off by the security officials. Internet services are also suspended in the area. As the operation is still underway, further details regarding the encounter are awaited. A number of militants have been killed by security forces in recent months, including the Lashkar's Abu Dujana and the Hizbul's Sabzar Ahmed Bhat, indicating a ramping up of anti-militant activity. Meanwhile, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Krishna Ghati sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch on Wednesday. One soldier has been injured in the incident. Last month, three simultaneous encounters were reported between terrorists and security personnel in several areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The encounters were reported from Dooru Shahabad in Anantnag district, Noorbagh in Srinagar city, and Chadoora in Budgam district. One terrorist was killed in Dooru and two were killed in the Budgam encounter.

J&K: 2 Terrorists killed in ongoing encounter in Handwara

The second phase of the polling is in progress at 263 municipal wards spread across Jammu and Kashmir, including 214 wards, in six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua in Jammu region. The polling started at 6am and will end at 4 pm today.

By 10am, the officials said Kathua district was leading the voter turnout chart with 39.4 per cent of 54,622 electorates exercising their democratic right.

It is followed by Doda district which recorded a voter turnout of &nbsp;36.5% per cent (10204 voters) followed by Reasi (35.7 per cent of 8830 voters), Ramban (35.1 per cent of 13396 voters), Kishtwar (34.1 per cent of 5533 voters) and Udhampur (30.2 per cent of 35519 voters) till 10 am, the officials said.

By 11am,&nbsp;Srinagar registered 1.3 per cent voter turnout, Anantnag was at 0.7 per cent, Bandipora registered 17.4 per cent, while Handwara saw 2.9 per cent voter turnout and&nbsp;Sopore at 2.3 per cent.&nbsp;

Authorities have made elaborate security arrangements to ensure peaceful polling which will seal the fate of 1,029 candidates.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: Voter turnout recorded till 10 am in the second phase of local body elections in the state. <a href="https://t.co/OAc5FNq6Ag">pic.twitter.com/OAc5FNq6Ag</a>
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A total of 544 polling stations, including 274 in Jammu and 270 in Kashmir, have been set up and are being guarded by police and paramilitary forces.

"The polling in Jammu region is going on smoothly and there was no untoward poll-related violence reported from anywhere," the officials said.

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Our security arrangements are robust. Voting process is going on very well. Voters are feeling safe. People are coming out in large numbers to cast their vote: SSP Bandipora Zulfikar Azad on voting for the second phase of local body elections in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/01cBWH3YFD">pic.twitter.com/01cBWH3YFD</a>
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The first phase of the polling was held on October 8 after a gap of 13 years and registered a voter turnout of 56.6 per cent.

The third phase of the polling is scheduled for October 13 followed by fourth and final phase on October 16. The counting of votes will be held on October 20. 
&nbsp;

The second phase of the polling is in progress at 263 municipal wards spread across Jammu and Kashmir, including 214 wards, in six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua in Jammu region.

The second phase of the polling is in progress at 263 municipal wards spread across Jammu and Kashmir, including 214 wards, in six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua in Jammu region. The polling started at 6am and will end at 4 pm today. By 10am, the officials said Kathua district was leading the voter turnout chart with 39.4 per cent of 54,622 electorates exercising their democratic right. It is followed by Doda district which recorded a voter turnout of 36.5% per cent (10204 voters) followed by Reasi (35.7 per cent of 8830 voters), Ramban (35.1 per cent of 13396 voters), Kishtwar (34.1 per cent of 5533 voters) and Udhampur (30.2 per cent of 35519 voters) till 10 am, the officials said. By 11am, Srinagar registered 1.3 per cent voter turnout, Anantnag was at 0.7 per cent, Bandipora registered 17.4 per cent, while Handwara saw 2.9 per cent voter turnout and Sopore at 2.3 per cent. Authorities have made elaborate security arrangements to ensure peaceful polling which will seal the fate of 1,029 candidates. #JammuAndKashmir: Voter turnout recorded till 10 am in the second phase of local body elections in the state. pic.twitter.com/OAc5FNq6Ag — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2018 × A total of 544 polling stations, including 274 in Jammu and 270 in Kashmir, have been set up and are being guarded by police and paramilitary forces. "The polling in Jammu region is going on smoothly and there was no untoward poll-related violence reported from anywhere," the officials said. Our security arrangements are robust. Voting process is going on very well. Voters are feeling safe. People are coming out in large numbers to cast their vote: SSP Bandipora Zulfikar Azad on voting for the second phase of local body elections in #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/01cBWH3YFD — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2018 × The first phase of the polling was held on October 8 after a gap of 13 years and registered a voter turnout of 56.6 per cent. The third phase of the polling is scheduled for October 13 followed by fourth and final phase on October 16. The counting of votes will be held on October 20.

J&K municipal polls: Kathua district leads with 39% voter turnout by 10am 

Srinagar City Wednesday recorded lowest ever voter turnout in any election with less than 100 electorate casting their votes in nine out of the 19 wards of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) in the second phase of the ongoing urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

As per the state poll panel figures, a meagre 2.3 per cent of the 1.78 lakh city voters stepped out to cast their votes.

It was the lowest voter turn out in any election in Srinagar City, which has shown more inclination towards abstention from the electoral process since the eruption of militancy in the state in 1989.

In the Lok Sabha bypolls for Srinagar parliamentary constituency held in April 2017, the voter turnout was marginally higher than seven per cent.

In the 2nd phase of municipal polls Wednesday, two wards -- Syed Ali Akbar and Tankipora -- recorded less than 10 votes.

Only eight of the 10,371 voters cast their votes in Tankipora while nine out of 7,784 voters exercised their franchise in Syed Ali Akbar ward.

Interestingly, the last of the nine votes in Syed Ali Akbar ward was cast before 8.00 am while in Tankipora the last vote was cast just before the voting was to end at 4 pm.

S D Colony, Aloochibagh, Ziyarat Batamaloo, Karan Nagar, Nundreshi Colony, Basant Bagh and Fateh Kadal wards all recorded less than 100 votes while four other wards recorded less than 150 votes.

On the contrary, people at Lawaypora and Zainakot wards waited in long queues outside the polling stations to exercise their franchise.&nbsp;

In Lawaypora, over 15 per cent of the 6,385 electorates exercised their franchise while 864 of the 12,754 voters cast their votes at Zainakot.

Mujgund recorded 4.5 per cent polling while Solina registered over 6.3 per cent turn out.

Urban local bodies polls are being conducted in Jammu and Kashmir after a gap of 13 years with last exercise held in 2005.&nbsp;

Srinagar City Wednesday recorded lowest ever voter turnout in any election with less than 100 electorate casting their votes in nine out of the 19 wards of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) in the second phase of the ongoing urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

Srinagar City Wednesday recorded lowest ever voter turnout in any election with less than 100 electorate casting their votes in nine out of the 19 wards of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) in the second phase of the ongoing urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir. As per the state poll panel figures, a meagre 2.3 per cent of the 1.78 lakh city voters stepped out to cast their votes. It was the lowest voter turn out in any election in Srinagar City, which has shown more inclination towards abstention from the electoral process since the eruption of militancy in the state in 1989. In the Lok Sabha bypolls for Srinagar parliamentary constituency held in April 2017, the voter turnout was marginally higher than seven per cent. In the 2nd phase of municipal polls Wednesday, two wards -- Syed Ali Akbar and Tankipora -- recorded less than 10 votes. Only eight of the 10,371 voters cast their votes in Tankipora while nine out of 7,784 voters exercised their franchise in Syed Ali Akbar ward. Interestingly, the last of the nine votes in Syed Ali Akbar ward was cast before 8.00 am while in Tankipora the last vote was cast just before the voting was to end at 4 pm. S D Colony, Aloochibagh, Ziyarat Batamaloo, Karan Nagar, Nundreshi Colony, Basant Bagh and Fateh Kadal wards all recorded less than 100 votes while four other wards recorded less than 150 votes. On the contrary, people at Lawaypora and Zainakot wards waited in long queues outside the polling stations to exercise their franchise. In Lawaypora, over 15 per cent of the 6,385 electorates exercised their franchise while 864 of the 12,754 voters cast their votes at Zainakot. Mujgund recorded 4.5 per cent polling while Solina registered over 6.3 per cent turn out. Urban local bodies polls are being conducted in Jammu and Kashmir after a gap of 13 years with last exercise held in 2005.

'At 2.3 per cent turnout, Srinagar city records lowest ever voting in any election'

A total of 78.6 per cent of over 1.28 lakh voters exercised their franchise in Jammu while there was a low voter turnout yet again in Kashmir with 3.4 per cent of 2.20 lakh electorate casting their votes Wednesday in the second phase of municipal polls in the state, according to poll officials.

The second phase witnessed overall voter turnout of 31.3 per cent out of total electorate of 3.47 lakh in the state, they said.

The election commission officials said the overall turnout in two phases was 47.2 per cent in the state with the Jammu region registering 67.7 per cent and Kashmir 8.3 per cent.&nbsp;

The low voter turnout in Kashmir was in line with a meagre 8.3 per cent turnout in the valley during the first phase of polling, when the Jammu and Ladakh divisions had witnessed over 65 per cent of voting, they said.

Nineteen wards of Srinagar Municipal Corporation, having an electorate of 1.78 lakh, witnessed a turnout of just 2.3 per cent, officials said.

Bandipora district, however, witnessed brisk polling as 34.2 per cent of the 8,300 voters exercised their franchise, the officials said.

They said Sopore in north Kashmir and Anantnag in south Kashmir registered turnouts of 6.1 per cent and 1.1 per cent respectively.

Voters in Jammu region, however, voted enthusiastically in the second phase too, braving chilly weather conditions in the hills of Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Udhampur and Reasi districts, whose upper reaches experienced the season's first snowfall overnight.

The voting covering six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua recorded an average turnout of 76 per cent, the poll officials said.

They said the highest turnout of 84.6 per cent was recorded in Reasi district followed by Kathua (80 per cent), Ramban (79.53), Udhampur (79.21 per cent), Kishtwar (74.75 per cent) and Doda (72.77 per cent).&nbsp;

The enthusiastic voters thronged the polling booths soon after the polling began at 6 am and waited in long queues for their turn as the polling completed in a peaceful manner amid tight security arrangements.

The day-long polling in the Jammu region, however, was marred by the death of BJP candidate Azad Singh Raju (62) at a polling station.

Raju, a former employee of the Irrigation and Flood Control department died of heart attack at a polling booth in Ramban district shortly after the voting began, the officials said.&nbsp;

The 2nd phase of polling has sealed the fate of 881 candidates, while four candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase in Jammu region.&nbsp;

A total of 78.6 per cent of over 1.28 lakh voters exercised their franchise in Jammu while there was a low voter turnout yet again in Kashmir with 3.4 per cent of 2.

A total of 78.6 per cent of over 1.28 lakh voters exercised their franchise in Jammu while there was a low voter turnout yet again in Kashmir with 3.4 per cent of 2.20 lakh electorate casting their votes Wednesday in the second phase of municipal polls in the state, according to poll officials. The second phase witnessed overall voter turnout of 31.3 per cent out of total electorate of 3.47 lakh in the state, they said. The election commission officials said the overall turnout in two phases was 47.2 per cent in the state with the Jammu region registering 67.7 per cent and Kashmir 8.3 per cent. The low voter turnout in Kashmir was in line with a meagre 8.3 per cent turnout in the valley during the first phase of polling, when the Jammu and Ladakh divisions had witnessed over 65 per cent of voting, they said. Nineteen wards of Srinagar Municipal Corporation, having an electorate of 1.78 lakh, witnessed a turnout of just 2.3 per cent, officials said. Bandipora district, however, witnessed brisk polling as 34.2 per cent of the 8,300 voters exercised their franchise, the officials said. They said Sopore in north Kashmir and Anantnag in south Kashmir registered turnouts of 6.1 per cent and 1.1 per cent respectively. Voters in Jammu region, however, voted enthusiastically in the second phase too, braving chilly weather conditions in the hills of Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Udhampur and Reasi districts, whose upper reaches experienced the season's first snowfall overnight. The voting covering six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua recorded an average turnout of 76 per cent, the poll officials said. They said the highest turnout of 84.6 per cent was recorded in Reasi district followed by Kathua (80 per cent), Ramban (79.53), Udhampur (79.21 per cent), Kishtwar (74.75 per cent) and Doda (72.77 per cent). The enthusiastic voters thronged the polling booths soon after the polling began at 6 am and waited in long queues for their turn as the polling completed in a peaceful manner amid tight security arrangements. The day-long polling in the Jammu region, however, was marred by the death of BJP candidate Azad Singh Raju (62) at a polling station. Raju, a former employee of the Irrigation and Flood Control department died of heart attack at a polling booth in Ramban district shortly after the voting began, the officials said. The 2nd phase of polling has sealed the fate of 881 candidates, while four candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase in Jammu region.

J&K municipal polls: Jammu registers 78.6 per cent voter turnout, Kashmir 3.4

Polling began Wednesday for the second phase of the four-phased municipal elections in Jammu and Kashmir to seal the fate of 1,029 candidates in fray across the state.

Voting began at 6 am on Wednesday morning amid stringent security arrangements, officials said.

They said the voting would take place at 544 polling stations across the state and would end at 4 pm.

The officials said 1,029 candidates - 881 in Jammu division and 148 in Kashmir division - are in the fray for 263 municipal wards, including 49 in Kashmir and 214 in Jammu.

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Jammu and Kashmir: 84-year-old woman arrives at a polling station in Reasi to cast her vote in the second phase of urban local bodies elections <a href="https://t.co/QKnEKbPpZo">pic.twitter.com/QKnEKbPpZo</a>
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A total of 65 candidates - 61 of them from Kashmir valley - have already won the polls uncontested, while in 56 wards ? all in the valley - no nomination was received, so no polling is taking place in those places, they said.

As many as 270 polling stations have been designated for voting in Kashmir Division and 274 in Jammu Division, they added.

The officials said the total electorate in these wards is 346,980 - 128,104 in Jammu Division belonging to 18 Municipal bodies and 218,876 in Kashmir Division of five Municipal bodies.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: People queue up outside a polling booth in Udhampur to cast their votes for the second phase of local body elections. <a href="https://t.co/15Sy9VXxC7">pic.twitter.com/15Sy9VXxC7</a>
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They said massive security arrangements have been put in place to ensure smooth conduct of the polls.

The elections, covering 79 municipal bodies with an electorate of about 17 lakh, are being held in four phases.

A total of 3,372 nominations have been filed for 1,145 wards. The next phases will take place on October 13 and 16.

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Voting underway in 13 districts of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> in the second phase of urban local bodies elections; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#visuals</a> from a polling station in Reasi <a href="https://t.co/CpRO7ZFFow">pic.twitter.com/CpRO7ZFFow</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049834203800629249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The National Conference (NC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the CPI(M) have boycotted the polls to protest the legal challenge to Article 35A of the Constitution in the Supreme Court.

The government has declared a holiday on the day of poll in the municipal areas concerned to enable voters to cast their vote.

Polling began Wednesday for the second phase of the four-phased municipal elections in Jammu and Kashmir to seal the fate of 1,029 candidates in fray across the state.

Polling began Wednesday for the second phase of the four-phased municipal elections in Jammu and Kashmir to seal the fate of 1,029 candidates in fray across the state. Voting began at 6 am on Wednesday morning amid stringent security arrangements, officials said. They said the voting would take place at 544 polling stations across the state and would end at 4 pm. The officials said 1,029 candidates - 881 in Jammu division and 148 in Kashmir division - are in the fray for 263 municipal wards, including 49 in Kashmir and 214 in Jammu. Jammu and Kashmir: 84-year-old woman arrives at a polling station in Reasi to cast her vote in the second phase of urban local bodies elections pic.twitter.com/QKnEKbPpZo — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2018 × A total of 65 candidates - 61 of them from Kashmir valley - have already won the polls uncontested, while in 56 wards ? all in the valley - no nomination was received, so no polling is taking place in those places, they said. As many as 270 polling stations have been designated for voting in Kashmir Division and 274 in Jammu Division, they added. The officials said the total electorate in these wards is 346,980 - 128,104 in Jammu Division belonging to 18 Municipal bodies and 218,876 in Kashmir Division of five Municipal bodies. #JammuAndKashmir: People queue up outside a polling booth in Udhampur to cast their votes for the second phase of local body elections. pic.twitter.com/15Sy9VXxC7 — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2018 × They said massive security arrangements have been put in place to ensure smooth conduct of the polls. The elections, covering 79 municipal bodies with an electorate of about 17 lakh, are being held in four phases. A total of 3,372 nominations have been filed for 1,145 wards. The next phases will take place on October 13 and 16. Voting underway in 13 districts of #JammuAndKashmir in the second phase of urban local bodies elections; #visuals from a polling station in Reasi pic.twitter.com/CpRO7ZFFow — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2018 × The National Conference (NC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the CPI(M) have boycotted the polls to protest the legal challenge to Article 35A of the Constitution in the Supreme Court. The government has declared a holiday on the day of poll in the municipal areas concerned to enable voters to cast their vote.

J&K municipal polls: Second phase of elections begin amid tight security

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said.

The voting covering six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua recorded a turnout of 57 per cent till 12 am, the officials said, quoting information from district elections offices.

"Brisk polling is going on and there was no report of any untoward incidents reported from anywhere," the officials said.

Ramban district is leading the voter turnout chart with 62.9 per cent, out of 5533 electorate, exercising their franchise followed by Reasi (60.8 per cent of 10204 voters), Kathua (59.4 per cent of 54,622 voters), Doda (57.8 per cent of 13396 voters), Kishtwar (55.9 per cent of 8830 voters) and Udhampur (59.4 per cent of 35,519 voters), they said.

The polling will seal the fate of 881 candidates for 214 wards, while four candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase in Jammu region.

Long queues were witnessed outside the polling stations across all the districts since this morning to select their local representatives.

The first phase of the polling was held on October 8 after a gap of 13 years and registered a voter turnout of 56.6 per cent.&nbsp;

The third phase of the polling is scheduled for October 13 followed by fourth and final phase on October 16. The counting of votes will be held on October 20.

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said.

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said. The voting covering six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua recorded a turnout of 57 per cent till 12 am, the officials said, quoting information from district elections offices. "Brisk polling is going on and there was no report of any untoward incidents reported from anywhere," the officials said. Ramban district is leading the voter turnout chart with 62.9 per cent, out of 5533 electorate, exercising their franchise followed by Reasi (60.8 per cent of 10204 voters), Kathua (59.4 per cent of 54,622 voters), Doda (57.8 per cent of 13396 voters), Kishtwar (55.9 per cent of 8830 voters) and Udhampur (59.4 per cent of 35,519 voters), they said. The polling will seal the fate of 881 candidates for 214 wards, while four candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase in Jammu region. Long queues were witnessed outside the polling stations across all the districts since this morning to select their local representatives. The first phase of the polling was held on October 8 after a gap of 13 years and registered a voter turnout of 56.6 per cent. The third phase of the polling is scheduled for October 13 followed by fourth and final phase on October 16. The counting of votes will be held on October 20.

J&K local polls: Jammu records 57% voting till 12am

Over 1,000 candidates will participate in the second phase of the urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, officials said.

The four-phase elections began on October 8 and will end on October 16.

In the first phase polls Monday, threats from militant groups kept a majority of people away from polling booths in Kashmir Valley where the turnout was a paltry 8.3 per cent, whereas over 65 per cent of the electorate voted in the Jammu and Ladakh divisions of the state.

Polling on Monday was by and large peaceful in the four-phase election to urban local bodies, which has been boycotted by two main regional parties -- the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Officials said Tuesday security arrangements have been put in place for smooth conduct of the second phase elections which will take place from 6&nbsp; 
am to 4 pm.

The second phase will cover a total of 384 wards spanning 13 districts across the state seven of which are in the Valley, officials said.

They said 1,198 nominations were received for these wards and after scrutiny and withdrawal, 1,095 contestants are in the fray for the polls.&nbsp;

Out of 1,095 candidates, 65 have won the polls uncontested, including 61 from Kashmir Valley.

They said no polling will take place at 56 rpt 56 wards in the Valley as no nomination was received.

No nomination was submitted in all 13 wards of Frisal municipal committee of south Kashmir's Kulgam district, while only one nomination was received for 13 wards of Beerwah municipal committee in central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said.&nbsp;

Frisal, a part of Kulgam Assembly constituency, is represented by lone CPI(M) legislator M Y Tarigami, while Beerwah is represented in the state Assembly by former chief minister and National Conference (NC) vice-president Omar Abdullah.&nbsp;

A police official said security arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of the polls in all the areas were people would vote Wednesday, including in the 20 wards of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) in the city here.&nbsp;

Over 1,000 candidates will participate in the second phase of the urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, officials said. The four-phase elections began on October 8 and will end on October 16.

Over 1,000 candidates will participate in the second phase of the urban local bodies polls in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, officials said. The four-phase elections began on October 8 and will end on October 16. In the first phase polls Monday, threats from militant groups kept a majority of people away from polling booths in Kashmir Valley where the turnout was a paltry 8.3 per cent, whereas over 65 per cent of the electorate voted in the Jammu and Ladakh divisions of the state. Polling on Monday was by and large peaceful in the four-phase election to urban local bodies, which has been boycotted by two main regional parties -- the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Officials said Tuesday security arrangements have been put in place for smooth conduct of the second phase elections which will take place from 6 am to 4 pm. The second phase will cover a total of 384 wards spanning 13 districts across the state seven of which are in the Valley, officials said. They said 1,198 nominations were received for these wards and after scrutiny and withdrawal, 1,095 contestants are in the fray for the polls. Out of 1,095 candidates, 65 have won the polls uncontested, including 61 from Kashmir Valley. They said no polling will take place at 56 rpt 56 wards in the Valley as no nomination was received. No nomination was submitted in all 13 wards of Frisal municipal committee of south Kashmir's Kulgam district, while only one nomination was received for 13 wards of Beerwah municipal committee in central Kashmir's Budgam district, officials said. Frisal, a part of Kulgam Assembly constituency, is represented by lone CPI(M) legislator M Y Tarigami, while Beerwah is represented in the state Assembly by former chief minister and National Conference (NC) vice-president Omar Abdullah. A police official said security arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of the polls in all the areas were people would vote Wednesday, including in the 20 wards of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) in the city here.

J&K local polls: Over 1,000 candidates to participate in second phase 

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/interpols-missing-chinese-chief-resigns-amid-beijing-probe-170065">Interpol says its missing chief had resigned, China announces it is investigating him</a>

Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-local-body-polls-today-after-13-years-security-beefed-up-170057">Jammu and Kashmir: Local body polls today after 13 years, security beefed up</a>

Security forces have intensified checking and area domination as part of an elaborate plan to provide a sense of security for the smooth conduct of local body polls in the Kashmir Valley, officials said Sunday. The first phase of the polls start Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/far-right-bolsonaro-wins-1st-round-brazil-election-but-run-off-uncertain-170053">Far-right Bolsonaro wins 1st round Brazil election, run-off uncertain</a>

Polarizing far-right politician Jair Bolsonaro looked to be the big winner of a first-round presidential election in Brazil on Sunday, according to mostly complete results -- but a final victory in a run-off to be held in three weeks is far from assured.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-knew-about-vikas-bahls-sexual-abuse-allegations-says-named-shamed-him-privately-170074">Anurag Kashyap on allegations against Vikas Bahl: Named &amp; shamed him privately</a>

Anurag reveales that he knew about the sexual abuse allegations levied against Phantom Films co-owner Vikas Bahl. For those who are not aware, Vikas is the man behind Kangana Ranaut’s super successful film, ‘Queen’. Kangana confirmed that Vikas behaved inappropriately with her too while shooting for the film.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-asia-cup-badoni-and-tyagi-shine-as-india-beat-sri-lanka-by-144-runs-to-win-title-170055">U-19 Asia Cup: Badoni and Tyagi shine as India beat Sri Lanka by 144 runs to win </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-asia-cup-badoni-and-tyagi-shine-as-india-beat-sri-lanka-by-144-runs-to-win-title-170055">title</a>

India's U-19 team Sunday followed the footsteps of their seniors to win the U-19 Asia Cup title with a crushing 144-run win against Sri Lanka in the final with Delhi boys Ayush Badoni and Harsh Tyagi playing prominent roles.

&nbsp;

Interpol says its missing chief had resigned, China announces it is investigating him Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned.

Interpol says its missing chief had resigned, China announces it is investigating him Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned. Jammu and Kashmir: Local body polls today after 13 years, security beefed up Security forces have intensified checking and area domination as part of an elaborate plan to provide a sense of security for the smooth conduct of local body polls in the Kashmir Valley, officials said Sunday. The first phase of the polls start Monday. Far-right Bolsonaro wins 1st round Brazil election, run-off uncertain Polarizing far-right politician Jair Bolsonaro looked to be the big winner of a first-round presidential election in Brazil on Sunday, according to mostly complete results -- but a final victory in a run-off to be held in three weeks is far from assured. Anurag Kashyap on allegations against Vikas Bahl: Named & shamed him privately Anurag reveales that he knew about the sexual abuse allegations levied against Phantom Films co-owner Vikas Bahl. For those who are not aware, Vikas is the man behind Kangana Ranaut’s super successful film, ‘Queen’. Kangana confirmed that Vikas behaved inappropriately with her too while shooting for the film. U-19 Asia Cup: Badoni and Tyagi shine as India beat Sri Lanka by 144 runs to win title India's U-19 team Sunday followed the footsteps of their seniors to win the U-19 Asia Cup title with a crushing 144-run win against Sri Lanka in the final with Delhi boys Ayush Badoni and Harsh Tyagi playing prominent roles.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Less than two per cent of the electorate turned out to cast their votes on Monday in 83 wards of urban local bodies in Kashmir in the first two hours of polling for the first of the four-phased elections in the valley amidst stringent security arrangements.

"Nearly 1600 voters have exercised their franchise till 9.00 am at the 150 pollings stations set up in 83 wards across Kashmir Valley where polling is going on today," an official said.

Around 85,000 voters including 40,800 women are eligible to vote in the valley. Out of 30,074 voters in three wards of Srinagar Municipal Corporation, only 417 turned up at heavily-fortified polling stations.

Polling is picking up in north Kashmir as more than 10 per cent of 4,700 voters cast their votes in the first two hours for Kupwara Municipal Committee, followed by 5.5 per cent in Handwara town.

The poll percentage in Bandipora was an abysmal one per cent while Baramulla recorded around 0.8 per cent turnout, the official said.

In Anantnag, only 43 of the 1,639 votes have been cast so far, the official said, adding in Budgam only 12 voters turned up in the first two hours of polling.

The polling, which began at 7 am and will conclude at 4 pm, is being held for only 83 wards in the valley today as 69 wards have been won uncontested.

Of the 150 polling stations in Kashmir division, 138 polling stations have been categorized as hypersensitive.

The urban local body polls were announced last month but two major political parties -- National Conference and PDP -- have boycotted the elections accusing the Centre of not taking a firm stand on protection of Article 35-A of the Constitution which is facing a legal challenge in the Supreme Court.

Militants have killed two National Conference workers and issued threats to anyone participating in these polls, resulting in absence of any campaigning by candidates. 
In fact, in dozens of wards especially in south Kashmir, no candidate has filed nomination papers for polls.

For ensuring security of candidates, they have been moved to safe locations and their details have not been made public.&nbsp;

 
BJP candidate injured in stone-pelting in Bandipora

A BJP candidate, contesting the urban local body polls in Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, was Monday injured during stone-pelting by miscreants, officials said.

Adil Ahmad Buhru, BJP candidate for ward 15 of Bandipora Municipal Committee, was injured when miscreants pelted stones at him at Dachigam while he was on way to cast his vote at a polling station, the officials said.

Buhru was rushed to a nearby hospital, the official said, adding stone pelting was reported from several areas of Bandipora during the polling.

BJP spokesman Altaf Thakhur condemned the attack on the party candidate, saying those who indulge in violence are scared of democracy. 
Polling for the first of the four-phased elections to urban local bodies in Jammu and Kashmir is currently underway.&nbsp;

Less than two per cent of the electorate turned out to cast their votes on Monday in 83 wards of urban local bodies in Kashmir in the first two hours of polling for the first of the four-phased elections in the valley amidst stringent security arrangements.

Less than two per cent of the electorate turned out to cast their votes on Monday in 83 wards of urban local bodies in Kashmir in the first two hours of polling for the first of the four-phased elections in the valley amidst stringent security arrangements. "Nearly 1600 voters have exercised their franchise till 9.00 am at the 150 pollings stations set up in 83 wards across Kashmir Valley where polling is going on today," an official said. Around 85,000 voters including 40,800 women are eligible to vote in the valley. Out of 30,074 voters in three wards of Srinagar Municipal Corporation, only 417 turned up at heavily-fortified polling stations. Polling is picking up in north Kashmir as more than 10 per cent of 4,700 voters cast their votes in the first two hours for Kupwara Municipal Committee, followed by 5.5 per cent in Handwara town. The poll percentage in Bandipora was an abysmal one per cent while Baramulla recorded around 0.8 per cent turnout, the official said. In Anantnag, only 43 of the 1,639 votes have been cast so far, the official said, adding in Budgam only 12 voters turned up in the first two hours of polling. The polling, which began at 7 am and will conclude at 4 pm, is being held for only 83 wards in the valley today as 69 wards have been won uncontested. Of the 150 polling stations in Kashmir division, 138 polling stations have been categorized as hypersensitive. The urban local body polls were announced last month but two major political parties -- National Conference and PDP -- have boycotted the elections accusing the Centre of not taking a firm stand on protection of Article 35-A of the Constitution which is facing a legal challenge in the Supreme Court. Militants have killed two National Conference workers and issued threats to anyone participating in these polls, resulting in absence of any campaigning by candidates. In fact, in dozens of wards especially in south Kashmir, no candidate has filed nomination papers for polls. For ensuring security of candidates, they have been moved to safe locations and their details have not been made public. BJP candidate injured in stone-pelting in Bandipora A BJP candidate, contesting the urban local body polls in Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, was Monday injured during stone-pelting by miscreants, officials said. Adil Ahmad Buhru, BJP candidate for ward 15 of Bandipora Municipal Committee, was injured when miscreants pelted stones at him at Dachigam while he was on way to cast his vote at a polling station, the officials said. Buhru was rushed to a nearby hospital, the official said, adding stone pelting was reported from several areas of Bandipora during the polling. BJP spokesman Altaf Thakhur condemned the attack on the party candidate, saying those who indulge in violence are scared of democracy. Polling for the first of the four-phased elections to urban local bodies in Jammu and Kashmir is currently underway.

J&K civic polls: Less than 2% of electorate turns out to vote, BJP candidate injured in stone-pelting

The mountainous Doda and Kishtwar districts of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed 365 road accidents this year that left 76 persons dead and 472 others injured, officials said Sunday.

"While 24 persons were killed and 287 injured in 158 road accidents in Doda, 52 persons lost their lives and 185 injured in 207 accidents in Kishtwar since January this year,"&nbsp;the official said.

According to the Union Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways, Jammu and Kashmir ranks second across India in the number of road accidents per 10,000 vehicles with an average of over 900 deaths every year in the last five years.

The average number of deaths per year in the state has been over 900 over the last five years.&nbsp;

In 2017, as many as 926 persons died in over 5,000 road accidents across the state. In 2016, the state witnessed 958 deaths in road accidents, while 917 people died in 2015 and 992 died in 2014 and 990 in 2013.

In the backdrop of increasing road accidents in Chenab Valley resulting in public outcry, traffic police has tightened the noose against traffic violators over the past one month.

"We are trying our best to manage the traffic in a better way and to implement traffic rules for the safety of passengers. We have fined 1,738 vehicles in the month of September and collected a fine of Rs 6,75,000,"&nbsp;Deputy Superintendent of Police, Traffic, Doda-Kishtwar, Zohaib Hussain told PTI.

He said the department was facing staff crunch and is not in a position to deploy traffic personnel on every route but still police is focusing on link roads?of the twin districts where most of the accidents have taken place.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

He said police is also focusing on bikers performing stunts on main roads, not only risking their lives but also lives of commuters.

We are trying to motivate youth by organising awareness lectures and workshops in schools and have also involved their parents. I hope they will fall in line and will not push us to go harsh on them," the officer said.

Local residents have demanded stern action against traffic violators for fiddling with safety of passengers.

"Our link roads have become death traps as neither civil administration nor traffic police is there to restrain unruly drivers, who indulge in overloading, rash driving and overcharging,"&nbsp;Irshad Lawai, a resident of Sartingal village of Bhadarwah, said.

Locals alleged that bad roads coupled with little or no presence of traffic cops especially on link roads was the main cause for rising road accidents in the hilly districts.

"Transporters and drivers are ready to pay the occasional fine imposed by traffic authorities as they earn thousands by overloading on daily basis," another resident Mohammad Iqbal said.

The mountainous Doda and Kishtwar districts of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed 365 road accidents this year that left 76 persons dead and 472 others injured, officials said Sunday.

The mountainous Doda and Kishtwar districts of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed 365 road accidents this year that left 76 persons dead and 472 others injured, officials said Sunday. "While 24 persons were killed and 287 injured in 158 road accidents in Doda, 52 persons lost their lives and 185 injured in 207 accidents in Kishtwar since January this year," the official said. According to the Union Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways, Jammu and Kashmir ranks second across India in the number of road accidents per 10,000 vehicles with an average of over 900 deaths every year in the last five years. The average number of deaths per year in the state has been over 900 over the last five years. In 2017, as many as 926 persons died in over 5,000 road accidents across the state. In 2016, the state witnessed 958 deaths in road accidents, while 917 people died in 2015 and 992 died in 2014 and 990 in 2013. In the backdrop of increasing road accidents in Chenab Valley resulting in public outcry, traffic police has tightened the noose against traffic violators over the past one month. "We are trying our best to manage the traffic in a better way and to implement traffic rules for the safety of passengers. We have fined 1,738 vehicles in the month of September and collected a fine of Rs 6,75,000," Deputy Superintendent of Police, Traffic, Doda-Kishtwar, Zohaib Hussain told PTI. He said the department was facing staff crunch and is not in a position to deploy traffic personnel on every route but still police is focusing on link roads?of the twin districts where most of the accidents have taken place. He said police is also focusing on bikers performing stunts on main roads, not only risking their lives but also lives of commuters. We are trying to motivate youth by organising awareness lectures and workshops in schools and have also involved their parents. I hope they will fall in line and will not push us to go harsh on them," the officer said. Local residents have demanded stern action against traffic violators for fiddling with safety of passengers. "Our link roads have become death traps as neither civil administration nor traffic police is there to restrain unruly drivers, who indulge in overloading, rash driving and overcharging," Irshad Lawai, a resident of Sartingal village of Bhadarwah, said. Locals alleged that bad roads coupled with little or no presence of traffic cops especially on link roads was the main cause for rising road accidents in the hilly districts. "Transporters and drivers are ready to pay the occasional fine imposed by traffic authorities as they earn thousands by overloading on daily basis," another resident Mohammad Iqbal said.

Jammu and Kashmir: 76 killed in road accidents in Doda, Kishtwar this year

An earthquake of 4.6 magnitude&nbsp;struck parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday.

According to reports, the tremors were felt around&nbsp;8:30 in the morning with the depth of 106 km.

So far there is no report of any damage or casualty.

More details awaited.

Over 80,000 people were killed on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) by an earthquake that occurred on October 8, 2005.

&nbsp;

An earthquake of 4.6 magnitude struck parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. According to reports, the tremors were felt around 8:30 in the morning with the depth of 106 km.

An earthquake of 4.6 magnitude struck parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. According to reports, the tremors were felt around 8:30 in the morning with the depth of 106 km. So far there is no report of any damage or casualty. More details awaited. Over 80,000 people were killed on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) by an earthquake that occurred on October 8, 2005.

4.6 magnitude earthquake hits parts of Jammu and Kashmir

Congress President Rahul Gandhi took <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-anil-ambani-jointly-carried-out-surgical-strike-defence-forces-rahul-gandhi">another potshot at Anil Ambani</a> on Saturday.&nbsp;

"When your BFF is the PM, you can get the 1,30,000 Cr. Rafale deal, even without relevant experience. But wait. There’s more!" Gandhi tweeted. &nbsp;

"Apparently, 400,000 JK Govt staff will also be arm twisted into buying health insurance ONLY from your company!" he added.&nbsp;

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When your BFF is the PM, you can get the 1,30,000 Cr. Rafale deal, even without relevant experience. But wait. There’s more! 
 
Apparently, 400,000 JK Govt staff will also be arm twisted into buying health insurance ONLY from your company! <a href="https://t.co/DlEOqWA2NH">https://t.co/DlEOqWA2NH</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1048440756946579456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Gandhi was referring to recent news reports saying Jammu and Kashmir government employees have been made to buy insurance from Reliance.&nbsp;

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Modi- Reliance nexus: 
 
If you want an insight into how Modi is invested to prop up Reliance, look no further than J&amp;K where all Govt employees are being forced to buy Reliance insurance policy but not Govt's LIC wd out bidding. Premium collection wd be 8000 crore per Annum! <a href="https://t.co/CX1QbhY1BK">pic.twitter.com/CX1QbhY1BK</a>
— Salman Nizami (@SalmanNizami_) <a href="https://twitter.com/SalmanNizami_/status/1044967638818906113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The reference to the BFF was to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Gandhi has been relentlessly attacking the Modi-led NDA government and Anil Ambani over the Rafale deal. Gandhi says the NDA government is paying three times as much as the UPA government had agreed to pay for the Rafale planes it is buying from France's Dassault Aviation.&nbsp;

He has also attacked Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence, which was chosen as Dassault's India partner. The original deal brokered by the UPA government had had the public-sector HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd) as the India partner.&nbsp;

Reliance Defence has no experience in the defence or aerospace industry.&nbsp;

Gandhi says Reliance being made the India partner is an example of crony capitalism.&nbsp;

Congress President Rahul Gandhi took another potshot at Anil Ambani on Saturday. "When your BFF is the PM, you can get the 1,30,000 Cr. Rafale deal, even without relevant experience.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi took another potshot at Anil Ambani on Saturday. "When your BFF is the PM, you can get the 1,30,000 Cr. Rafale deal, even without relevant experience. But wait. There’s more!" Gandhi tweeted. "Apparently, 400,000 JK Govt staff will also be arm twisted into buying health insurance ONLY from your company!" he added. When your BFF is the PM, you can get the 1,30,000 Cr. Rafale deal, even without relevant experience. But wait. There’s more! Apparently, 400,000 JK Govt staff will also be arm twisted into buying health insurance ONLY from your company! https://t.co/DlEOqWA2NH — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 6, 2018 × Gandhi was referring to recent news reports saying Jammu and Kashmir government employees have been made to buy insurance from Reliance. Modi- Reliance nexus: If you want an insight into how Modi is invested to prop up Reliance, look no further than J&K where all Govt employees are being forced to buy Reliance insurance policy but not Govt's LIC wd out bidding. Premium collection wd be 8000 crore per Annum! pic.twitter.com/CX1QbhY1BK — Salman Nizami (@SalmanNizami_) September 26, 2018 × The reference to the BFF was to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi has been relentlessly attacking the Modi-led NDA government and Anil Ambani over the Rafale deal. Gandhi says the NDA government is paying three times as much as the UPA government had agreed to pay for the Rafale planes it is buying from France's Dassault Aviation. He has also attacked Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence, which was chosen as Dassault's India partner. The original deal brokered by the UPA government had had the public-sector HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd) as the India partner. Reliance Defence has no experience in the defence or aerospace industry. Gandhi says Reliance being made the India partner is an example of crony capitalism.

Rahul Gandhi now says J&K govt employees being forced to buy Reliance insurance

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