Despite threats from militants and separatist groups, civic polls in Baramulla and Kupwara districts of Jammu and Kashmir [Images] ended peacefully on Saturday.

Over 60 per cent of the electorate cast their votes. Official sources said this is the highest turnout in any election in Kashmir valley since 1990.

Civic polls are being held in six phases in the state after a gap of 27 years.

Police had beefed up security in the area following threats from militant groups.

The municipal committees in Kupwara district witnessed a massive turnout of 86 per cent, while those in Baramulla registered a turnout of 56.5 per cent, the sources said.

The highest voter turnout was recorded in Handwara municipal committee, where nearly 88 per cent of the electorate exercised their franchise.

Candidates for Kunzer municipal committee were declared elected unopposed as there were only five nominations for as many seats.

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