Srinagar: The political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir is set to witness a dramatic showdown today as voting for the second phase of the Assembly elections begins. With 26 crucial seats up for grabs, around 26 lakh voters will cast their ballots to determine the fate of 239 candidates vying for a seat in the Union Territory’s legislature. Among the notable contenders are National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah and BJP’s Jammu and Kashmir Chief Ravinder Raina, both facing intense competition in their respective constituencies.
Omar Abdullah’s Dual Fight for Political Survival
Omar Abdullah, a prominent figure in J&K politics, is contesting from two seats – Ganderbal and Budgam – in a bid to secure his political future after a significant defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Baramulla. The Ganderbal seat holds symbolic importance as it has long been a stronghold of the Abdullah family, with Omar’s grandfather Sheikh Abdullah and father Farooq Abdullah both having represented this constituency.
However, Omar’s dominance is being tested this time. He faces a formidable challenge from the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) Bashir Ahmed Mir, creating a tense battle to reclaim his family’s legacy seat. Omar’s second contest is in Budgam, where he is up against PDP’s Aga Saeed Muntazir Mehdi, whose influential Mehdi family has deep roots in the region. With both constituencies promising neck-and-neck contests, Abdullah’s reputation and political future hang in the balance.
BJP’s Ravinder Raina Eyes a Repeat of 2014 Victory
In Nowshera, BJP’s Ravinder Raina is seeking to replicate his 2014 success, facing off against PDP’s Haq Nawaz. Raina, a key figure for the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir, is under pressure to retain his seat and fortify the party’s presence in the region. In 2008, the seat had swung in favor of the National Conference when Radheshyam Sharma emerged victorious. With both PDP and BJP engaged in fierce competition, the outcome could shift the political dynamics in Nowshera.
Close Contests Brewing Across Key Seats
Other significant contests include Poonch Haveli, where National Conference candidate Ejaz Ahmed Jan is hoping to bounce back from his defeat in 2014. This time, he faces PDP’s newcomer Shamim Ahmed, a fresh face brought in to challenge the NC’s grip on the constituency. With new and seasoned candidates clashing across the region, today’s results could reshape the political future of Jammu and Kashmir.
Voting Timeline and Security Measures
Voting commenced at 7 a.m. and will continue until 6 p.m., amid tight security arrangements to ensure a smooth and fair election process. As political heavyweights brace for the outcome, the second phase of the J&K Assembly elections promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping the Union Territory’s future.
