The podcast dives into the long-awaited assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir after nearly a decade. It explores significant political changes since 2014, including the abrogation of Article 370 and the new union territory status. With insights into intricate voter dynamics, the discussions highlight the rise of unexpected candidates like Engineer Rashid and the role of political alliances. The analysis also touches on youth discontent and the potential for a hung assembly, making it a crucial listen for anyone interested in J&K's evolving political landscape.
The Jammu and Kashmir elections signify a decade-long wait for assembly polls, reshaping the political landscape after the abrogation of Article 370.
The electoral process faced significant logistical challenges due to security concerns and public skepticism, emphasizing the need for transparency and participation.
Deep dives
Background of the Jammu and Kashmir Elections
The Jammu and Kashmir elections are significant as they mark the first assembly polls in the region after a gap of ten years, following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. This decision led to the state's division into two Union territories, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, changing the political landscape. A delimitation commission was formed to redraw constituency borders, adding six seats to Jammu and one to Kashmir, reflecting demographic changes. The assembly elections have been viewed as a potential referendum on the central government's actions regarding Article 370, with all parties except the BJP promising to restore the state's previous status.
Conducting Security-Sensitive Elections
Executing the elections in Jammu and Kashmir required extensive security planning due to the region's sensitive nature. The Chief Election Commissioner and other officials spent months coordinating with local political parties, security forces, and citizens to ensure a transparent electoral process. Various logistical challenges included managing campaign security for each candidate and the timing of the elections, which were strategically set after the conclusion of a summer pilgrimage that required heightened security. The election commission's efforts to maintain a robust electoral roll reflected a commitment to encouraging voter participation amidst persisting doubts among the public regarding the electoral process.
Political Landscape and Key Issues
The political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir are increasingly complex, with traditional parties like the National Conference and PDP vying for influence alongside the BJP and smaller independent candidates. Major issues driving the current elections include rising unemployment, unaffordable electricity bills, and drug abuse, especially in the Kashmir Valley, affecting how residents perceive their representatives. Additionally, the recent delimitation exercise has altered constituency boundaries, intensifying the competition between the parties, particularly in the Jammu and Kashmir regions. The elections not only highlight local grievances but also reflect a broader sentiment of dissatisfaction with the central government among many voters in the region.
The last time the people of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) elected their representatives to the state assembly was nearly a decade ago. In 2014, the electoral landscape was markedly different. For starters, J&K was a state that included Ladakh, it enjoyed a special status as per the constitution of India and there were fewer seats in the fray. Turn to today and much water has passed under the bridge. J&K is now a union territory that will have a bigger legislative assembly with truncated powers. Join host Nidhi Sharma–along with ET’s own Anubhuti Vishnoi and Hakeem Irfan Rashid–as she tracks one of the shortest elections the region has seen and the issues, parties and personalities resonating with the electorate.
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