Srinagar: As Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir prepares for its first assembly elections since the revocation of its special status in 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is encountering significant discontent in both Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. This election comes amidst ongoing debates about the region’s autonomy and political future.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the elections, deemed by some as inauthentic due to past political manipulation, will involve 90 seats—47 in Kashmir and 43 in Jammu—conducted in three phases. BBC reporters Auqib Javeed and Zoya Mateen highlighted growing dissatisfaction with the BJP, stemming from its policies over recent years. Contrary to historical election boycotts, current sentiments have shifted towards increased participation, seen as a way to counteract BJP’s influence and regain local governance.
Key regional parties like the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) led by Mehbooba Mufti and the National Conference (NC) headed by Omar Abdullah are seen as major contenders, while the BJP, traditionally strong in Jammu, faces a precarious position in the Kashmir Valley.
Political scientist Noor Ahmad Baba expressed concerns about the lack of democratic freedoms in the region, noting that the elections provide a platform for the public to respond to these issues. Meanwhile, skepticism remains about the election’s impact on the broader Kashmir dispute, with one local commenting to the BBC about the disconnect between the electoral process and the territorial conflict.
The opposition, excluding the BJP, has unanimously called for the restoration of the statehood and special status that were withdrawn. The previous 2014 elections saw the BJP forming a government with the PDP, which dissolved in 2018 due to internal conflicts.
Residents report feelings of neglect, citing high unemployment rates and insufficient infrastructure development, despite previous promises by the BJP. The pervasive military presence continues to overshadow the electoral proceedings, adding to the complexities of this pivotal election.