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The recent assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) have resulted in a significant victory for the National Conference (NC) and the Indian National Congress (INC) alliance. The alliance has crossed the halfway mark in the 90-member J&K Assembly, securing enough seats to form the next government. This will be the first elected government in J&K since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, marking a significant political shift in the region.
The NC, under the leadership of Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, emerged as the dominant force, winning six seats and leading in 35 others. Their campaign centered around the restoration of Article 370 and statehood, resonating with the sentiments of the people, particularly in the Kashmir Valley and Chenab Valley. The party also promised greater autonomy and the reinstatement of the Durbar Move practice.
The BJP, which had campaigned heavily on its 'Naya Kashmir' narrative, failed to make significant inroads in the Valley, securing no seats. Their allies, including the J&K Apni Party, also failed to open an account, indicating the continued resistance to the BJP's policies in the region.
The Congress, despite a lackluster campaign, managed to secure leads in six constituencies, primarily in the Valley. Omar Abdullah had advised the Congress leadership to focus on the Jammu region, but their limited presence there resulted in a relatively low number of seats.
The PDP, which had formed a coalition government with the BJP in 2014, has been significantly weakened in this election. The party's alliance with the BJP is widely seen as a reason for its poor performance, with the public expressing anger towards the PDP for its decision to collaborate with the BJP. The PDP is currently leading in only four seats, a far cry from its 28 seat victory in the 2014 elections.
The results of the elections demonstrate the continued desire for the restoration of Article 370 and statehood in J&K. The NC-Congress alliance's success reflects the public's trust in their promise to address these issues. The BJP, despite its efforts to present a new vision for Kashmir, has been rejected by the people, particularly in the Valley. The outcome of these elections will likely have significant implications for the future of J&K and its political landscape.
Source: NC-Congress alliance crosses halfway mark, heads to form government in J&K