The Election Commission of India’s announcement of by-elections for the Budgam and Nagrota Assembly constituencies marks more than a procedural exercise to fill two vacant seats. It represents an important point in Jammu and Kashmir’s evolving democratic journey, a moment to test the strength of institutions, the maturity of political parties, and the public’s faith in the electoral process after a year of political transition and administrative consolidation. With over 2.2 lakh voters eligible to cast their ballots across the two constituencies, these by-elections may not immediately change the balance of power, but their symbolic and strategic value is far greater than numbers can suggest.
The Budgam seat carries the political imprint of Omar Abdullah’s decision to retain Ganderbal after winning both seats in 2024, a decision that reflected both political prudence and personal calculation. Nagrota, on the other hand, bears the emotional weight of the late Devender Rana’s untimely passing, which left not just a legislative vacancy but also a gap in the BJP’s regional leadership. The two constituencies, therefore, tell different but interconnected stories, one of deliberate succession and another of leadership interrupted by tragedy. From an administrative standpoint, the Election Commission’s decision to conduct the by-elections demonstrates its commitment to restoring the full strength of the 90-member Legislative Assembly, which has operated with 88 members for the past year. This procedural step carries broader meaning, signalling a gradual normalization of democratic activity in a region where political continuity has often been interrupted by conflict, realignment, and competing narratives of identity and governance. However, the by-polls also renew a familiar debate about whether elections in Jammu and Kashmir today reflect genuine democratic choice or managed continuity under close central oversight.
The political setting surrounding these by-elections is especially revealing. The National Conference, Congress, and BJP each enter this contest with distinct motivations and stakes. For the NC, retaining Budgam means reaffirming its central position in the political heart of the Valley. For the BJP, defending Nagrota means consolidating its influence across Jammu’s semi-urban and rural areas, where its support has long drawn strength from nationalist sentiment and organizational structure. For the Congress, even while not fielding a candidate, the focus is on maintaining relevance within the opposition framework, especially after tensions within the INDIA bloc over seat-sharing have raised questions about alliance cohesion. Yet, beyond the party strategies lies a deeper question about the voter’s mindset. The people of Budgam and Nagrota have seen a year filled with administrative initiatives, shifting alliances, and development promises. There is fatigue from recurring rhetoric but also cautious hope that accountability may follow through action. For many, this by-election is not merely a political event but a referendum on governance and trust. If Budgam reflects on the performance of the ruling coalition in the Valley, Nagrota will indicate whether the BJP can preserve its emotional and organizational connection with the Jammu electorate after Rana’s passing.
These elections, however, must be viewed in the larger national framework where Jammu and Kashmir continues to symbolize both the challenges and aspirations of Indian democracy. The technical efficiency of using EVMs, VVPATs, and improved polling infrastructure is commendable, but true democratic success lies in ensuring that every voter believes their voice matters and that representation translates into meaningful participation. Voter turnout will be the most crucial signal of public confidence. A low turnout could indicate persisting alienation, particularly in Budgam, where skepticism about politics runs deep. Conversely, strong participation in Nagrota would reaffirm Jammu’s continuing trust in democratic processes despite political realignments. The by-elections are a reminder that democracy cannot be sustained on electoral formalities alone. It thrives when institutions remain credible, governance is transparent, and leadership is accountable beyond campaign seasons. Political rhetoric must now evolve into actionable governance, especially in areas like employment, public infrastructure, and basic services that directly affect people’s lives.
Ultimately, the by-elections in Budgam and Nagrota represent a test not of individuals but of democratic endurance in Jammu and Kashmir. They will determine whether the region continues to move from political uncertainty toward institutional stability and whether citizens still see elections as instruments of change rather than continuity. The Election Commission’s notification, therefore, is more than an administrative call for votes; it revives the larger conversation about democracy’s purpose and promise in a post-Article 370 reality. For voters, this is not just about electing representatives but reclaiming their support. For political leaders, it is a chance to reaffirm that power rooted in trust and accountability remains the truest form of public service.
-Vishal Rohmetara, A freelance journalist
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