In Jammu and Kashmir, the 4th phase of Panchayat elections in 12 blocks of Jammu and Kashmir Divisions is going on smoothly amid tight security arrangements. The polling began at 8 a. m and is progressing in seven blocks of Jammu Division and five blocks of Kashmir division. The voters in 12 blocks will elect 345 Sarpanches and 2505 panches. There are 2110 candidates in the fray for Sarpanches constituencies including 18 women and 4408 for Panches constituencies. Overall, 50% polling was reported till noon in Bani, Duggan and Loi Malhar blocks of the Kathua district. While Bani Block recorded 50% polling, it was 45% in Duggan and 40 % in Loi Malhar . In Ghordi block of Udhampur district over 45% polling was recorded till 11.30 a.m. People in Mahore block of Reasi district were seen standing in long queues right from the early morning to cast their votes. About 70% polling was recorded till 12 noon. Same enthusiasm was seen among the voters of Nowshehra and Kalakote block of Rajouri district.