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Vandita Mishra's column explores the recent political developments in Jammu & Kashmir and Bihar, highlighting the emergence of new trends and actors on the political stage. In Jammu & Kashmir, the recently concluded assembly elections signify a pivotal moment in the region's political landscape. After a decade of electoral inactivity and five years since the state was split into two Union Territories, the people of Kashmir actively participated in the voting process, signaling a shift away from boycott politics.
The participation in the elections, particularly by separatists and mainstream parties, has created a new dynamic in Kashmir's political discourse. While the outcome of the election remains to be seen, the very act of participation itself signifies a willingness to engage in democratic processes. This development places a significant responsibility on the central government to ensure the effective implementation of democratic principles in Jammu & Kashmir, given the enhanced powers of the Lieutenant Governor.
In Bihar, Prashant Kishor, a well-known political strategist, has launched his own political party, Jan Suraaj, aiming to present a 'naya vikalp' (new alternative) to the electorate. His party's entrance into the political arena comes at a time when established political forces like Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar have experienced a decline in influence. Kishor's strategy centers around leveraging his expertise in political maneuvering and appealing to voters disillusioned with the existing political landscape.
Kishor's approach emphasizes a shift in focus from traditional political identities based on caste, community, or ideology to the future of Bihar's children, their education, and employment opportunities. His gamble is that Bihar is ready for a fresh political approach that prioritizes the well-being of future generations. The success of Kishor's strategy will depend on whether he can effectively appeal to the electorate and convince them to embrace a new political alternative in a state accustomed to the ebb and flow of established political forces.
Source: Vandita Mishra writes: A people haunted by the past go to polls, a new actor climbs on to the stage