In the first legislative elections since India revoked Kashmir’s semi-autonomous status, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) has emerged as the leading political force. The NC secured 42 of the 90 seats in the Legislative Assembly, according to results announced by the Election Commission.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which governs India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, won 29 seats, while the Indian National Congress, allied with the NC, managed to win six seats. The elections, held in three phases starting on September 18, mark a significant political event in the region.
Omar Abdullah, leader of the NC and a former chief minister, expressed gratitude for the support the party received and promised to work hard to live up to voter expectations. Farooq Abdullah, Omar’s father, and NC president, stated that their mandate was to govern without oppressive measures, such as “police raj,” and to seek the release of prisoners.
He also committed to ensuring media freedom. Celebrations followed the NC’s victory, with supporters gathering outside counting centers and at the homes of successful candidates.
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Leads Legislative Elections, Challenging BJP’s Influence in Post-Autonomy Era
Kashmir, a region claimed by both India and Pakistan since 1947, has been a point of contention for decades. The recent election was seen by many as a reflection of public sentiment towards New Delhi’s 2019 decision to strip the region of its special status and split it into two federally administered territories, Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh.
Social activists viewed the election results as a clear rejection of the Indian government’s actions, with local voices expressing hope for the restoration of political rights. However, critics argue that the new assembly will hold limited powers, primarily in areas like education and culture, while the central government in New Delhi retains overriding authority.
The BJP performed strongly in the southern part of the region, particularly in the Hindu-majority Jammu area, where it won all its seats. Prime Minister Modi praised the election turnout, stating it reflected the people’s trust in the democratic process. Despite not winning in Kashmir, the BJP’s continued dominance in Jammu underscores the party’s influence in the region and its ability to retain a significant voter base there.
Meanwhile, in Haryana, another crucial state election unfolded, where preliminary results indicated a likely BJP victory. The Election Commission showed the BJP leading in 50 of the 90 constituencies, while Congress trailed with leads in 35.
This result came as a surprise, as many exit polls had predicted a Congress win. If confirmed, the BJP would secure a third consecutive term in Haryana, further solidifying its position in the state for the next five years.
