High polling in Jammu and Kashmir proof of people's faith in democracy: BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday stated that the high percentage of voting in the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections is proof that the people of that state have put their faith in democracy.

"India is changing now. The people of Jammu and Kashmir decided to have faith in democracy. It is a very good sign," said BJP leader Tarun Vijay.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor echoed those views, stating that India offers its citizens the freedom of choice.

"This is really good news. It shows Pakistan that Indian democracy offers people the freedom of choice," he said.

Earlier in the day, the Election Commission (EC) declared that the second phase of the legislative assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir had passed peacefully. The commission stated that the overall average percentage of the second phase as of 5.30 pm was 71 percent.