Srinagar: As Jammu and Kashmir approaches the third and final phase of its assembly elections, the political atmosphere is intensifying. Voters in 40 constituencies—24 in Jammu division and 16 in Kashmir division— cast their votes for 415 candidates on Tuesday, i.e., today, including notable figures like former deputy chief ministers Tara Chand and Muzaffar Beig.
Battle in Jammu region
In Jammu division, voting will take place in predominantly Hindu districts such as Jammu, Samba, Kathua, and Udhampur. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is aiming for a clean sweep in these areas, hoping to replicate its success from the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where it led in 22 out of 24 assembly segments.
In contrast, the Congress party is striving to regain its foothold in the region. Their campaign has centred on local issues, including the introduction of smart electricity meters, property tax imposition, and alleged irregularities in recruitment exams. These topics have resonated with voters looking for change.
Battle in Kashmir region
In the Kashmir division, attention turns to the districts of Bandipora, Kupwara, and Baramulla. Key candidates include Engineer Rashid and Sajad Lone, both of whom have a significant following. Sajad Lone, leader of the People’s Conference, is contesting from Handwara and Kupwara, while Rashid aims to hold onto his seat in Langate.
The BJP's campaign has focused on the abrogation of Article 370 and a tough stance on separatism, but the reception of these themes among voters in Kashmir remains uncertain, given the region’s ongoing political tensions.
Notable Candidates to Watch
Several prominent political figures are vying for seats in this election:
- Devender Singh Rana(BJP, Nagrota seat): Viewed as a rising star, he is focusing on development and infrastructure.
- Raman Bhalla (Congress, RS Pura-Jammu South seat): The party’s working president and a former minister, he is advocating for local governance and administrative reforms.
- Tara Chand (Congress, Chhamb seat): A veteran politician with experience in regional issues, his candidacy could be vital for Congress.
- Sajad Lone (People's Conference, Handwara and Kupwara seat): A former separatist, his influence in Kupwara and Handwara makes him a crucial player in the election.
According to J&K Chief Electoral Officer Pandurang K Pole, over 3.9 million voters are eligible to participate in this final phase across the 40 constituencies.
In the Jammu division, Jammu district has the highest number of assembly segments, with 11 seats. Kathua district has six, Udhampur four, and Samba three. In Kashmir division, 16 constituencies include Karnah, Kupwara, and Handwara, among others.
In the Kashmir division, the assembly constituencies include several key districts. In Kupwara district, the constituencies are Karnah, Kupwara, Lolab, Handwara, and Langate. Moving to Baramulla district, voters will decide in Sopore, Rafiabad, Uri, Baramulla, Gulmarg, Wagoora-Kreeri, and Pattan. Lastly, Bandipora district includes Sonawari, Bandipora, and Gurez (ST). These constituencies reflect the diverse political landscape and voter concerns in the region.