SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir held its first assembly elections since the repeal of Article 370, marking a significant milestone in the region’s political landscape. These elections were also the first in the Union Territory setup and witnessed unprecedented participation, even in areas previously known for poll boycotts.
The elections, held after a decade, resulted in the National Conference emerging as the dominant party with 42 seats in the 90-member assembly. The party, led by Omar Abdullah, who became chief minister for a second term, ran a campaign focused on restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370. Abdullah joins the ranks of his grandfather Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and father Farooq Abdullah as a two-term chief minister.
The BJP secured 29 seats, consolidating its position in the Jammu region but failed to win in the Valley. Meanwhile, the Congress managed six seats, while the PDP saw its worst performance, with just three seats compared to 28 in 2014.
The elections also saw new entrants and unexpected outcomes. Former separatist leaders and their relatives contested, adding a new dynamic. Omar Abdullah faced a shocking Lok Sabha loss in Baramulla to jailed leader Sheikh Abdul Rashid. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti’s daughter Iltija Mufti made her political debut but failed to make a mark.
The National Conference swiftly passed resolutions for the restoration of statehood and special status. These moves sparked protests from BJP legislators, leading to dramatic scenes in the assembly. Despite these efforts, the hybrid governance model continues, with the lieutenant governor retaining control over key departments, including home affairs and IAS postings.
Security remained a concern with sporadic attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, though the overall situation was peaceful. The deadliest incident occurred at a tunnel construction site in Ganderbal, claiming seven lives.
As Jammu and Kashmir navigates its political and security challenges, the impact of the Article 370 repeal remains at the forefront of its evolving narrative.
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