Srinagar: In a significant political statement during the recent Assembly elections, the electorate of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has resoundingly rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its policies, which many perceive as undermining their right to self-determination—a right upheld by the United Nations Security Council.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the elections highlighted a robust turnout from Kashmiri Muslims, who traditionally view elections under Indian administration as invalid. However, this time they participated strategically to thwart the BJP’s efforts to establish a Hindutva-driven leadership in the region, thereby protecting their identity against the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

The results reflect a broader rejection of the BJP’s agenda since the controversial legislative changes on August 5, 2019. Claims by the BJP of gaining popular support in the region have been clearly contradicted by the electoral outcome, undermining party narratives of promoting peace, progress, and development in IIOJK.

The election also underscored the commitment of Kashmiri Muslims to preserve their distinct cultural and religious identity. Despite facing significant political and social challenges, the community’s united front in the elections serves as a strong rebuke to attempts at diluting their heritage and autonomy.