The counting of votes for the 2024 assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir began today at 8 AM. In Haryana, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is eyeing its third consecutive term, securing three seats and leading in 45 out of the 90 constituencies. The Congress has won six seats and is ahead in 31.
In Jammu and Kashmir, voting took place for the first time in 10 years, following its change in status to a Union Territory. The National Conference (NC)-Congress alliance is leading, with the NC securing 15 seats and Congress winning two. The BJP has won 14 seats and is ahead in 15 others.
PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti congratulated the Congress-NC alliance for their strong performance, while her party faces a significant loss, likely securing just two seats, down from 28 in the 2014 elections. Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah of the National Conference has won the Budgam seat and is poised to become the next Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, as confirmed by Farooq Abdullah.
In Haryana, Olympic wrestler and Congress candidate Vinesh Phogat secured a victory in Julana, while Nayab Singh Saini, the current Chief Minister, continues to lead in his constituency.
The Election Commission dismissed Congress’ claims of a delay in the vote count, reaffirming that updates are being provided promptly. Meanwhile, AAP leader Mehraj Malik has won a seat in Jammu and Kashmir, marking a notable achievement for the party in the region.
With counting still ongoing, both Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir are poised for significant political outcomes.