The first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections is set for September 18, marking the first major electoral event since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. This phase will see voting in 24 constituencies, with over 23 lakh eligible voters, including a significant number of young and first-time voters. The BJP is contesting independently, while the National Conference (NC) and Congress have formed an alliance to contest 51 and 32 seats, respectively. Key candidates include Iltija Mufti of PDP in Bijbehara and veteran Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami from CPI(M) in Kulgam. The elections are expected to significantly influence the political landscape of the region, with heightened security measures in place to ensure smooth voting. Results from this phase, along with the subsequent two phases scheduled for September 25 and October 1, will be announced on October 8.