Campaign frenzy ends for phase one of J&K Assembly elections; over 23 lakh voters set to shape political future
High-stakes election kicks off in J&K after decade-long wait as voters decide the fate of 219 candidates
Jammu, 16-09-2024: The high-energy campaign for the first phase of Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir concluded today, setting the stage for polling across 24 constituencies spanning seven districts. These elections, significant for being the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the conversion of the state into a Union Territory, mark a pivotal moment in the region’s political history.
A total of 23.27 lakh voters will cast their ballots, determining the fate of 219 candidates. The electoral process involves 3,276 polling stations spread across critical areas such as Pampore, Tral, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Anantnag, Kishtwar, Bhaderwah, Doda, and Ramban, with robust security measures in place to ensure smooth voting.
The campaign witnessed fervent participation from both national and regional political forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addressed large rallies in the region, emphasizing their parties’ agendas. Regional heavyweights like the National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Apni Party, Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), and Engineer Rashid’s Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) were also in full force, engaging with voters through rallies, roadshows, and door-to-door campaigns.
Prime Minister Modi, speaking in Doda, declared that terrorism was in its “last phase” and accused the Abdullah, Mufti, and Gandhi families of “destroying” Jammu and Kashmir. He also championed the post-Article 370 era as one of peace and growth. In contrast, NC and PDP leaders focused their campaigns on reversing the abrogation of Article 370, accusing the BJP of exploiting Kashmir’s resources and diminishing its autonomy.
Engineer Rashid, released on interim bail from Tihar Jail, added a fresh dynamic to the election scene. Rashid, often accused of being a BJP proxy by both NC and PDP leaders, has dismissed these allegations. His political resurgence, particularly after defeating Omar Abdullah in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, has fueled debates about external influences in Kashmir’s politics.
The JeI-AIP alliance, formed just before the elections, drew sharp criticism, with NC Vice President Omar Abdullah accusing the partnership of working on an external agenda. He stated that the NC’s campaign had drawn significant participation, expressing optimism for strong electoral results. Similarly, PDP President Mehbooba Mufti attacked Rashid, alleging that his goal was to divide the Kashmiri vote to weaken regional unity.
The Congress, meanwhile, focused its campaign on the promise of restoring statehood, while remaining silent on the issue of Article 370. Senior BJP leaders, including Ram Madhav, expressed confidence in their prospects, envisioning a BJP-led government in Jammu and Kashmir.
With the campaign over, all eyes now turn to the polls, as voters prepare to exercise their democratic rights amidst high-security arrangements, paving the way for what promises to be a fiercely contested election in the region.
