The electoral landscape of Anantnag braces for a multi-cornered showdown in the upcoming 2024 parliamentary election following the announcement of former Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad’s candidacy by his newly formed Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP).
Azad’s entry into the electoral fray adds a new dimension to the political dynamics of the Anantnag-Rajouri seat, previously held by the National Conference’s Hasnain Masoodi in 2019. With DPAP nominating Azad and the National Conference fielding Main Altaf, the stage is set for a potentially intense three-way contest. Moreover, the likelihood of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti entering the race further intensifies the competition. Mufti, a two-time MP from Anantnag, represents the region that has witnessed a historical oscillation between the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the National Conference (NC) since 1999.
Amidst these developments, the stance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remains ambiguous, fueling speculations regarding its potential candidate or informal support for other contenders.
The Anantnag seat, emblematic of the underlying tensions within the Congress-led INDIA bloc, underscores the complexities of political alliances and rivalries in the region.
In recent years, the BJP has intensified efforts to expand its presence in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly after extensive campaigning led by J&K state unit boss Ravinder Raina, signaling a departure from previous electoral trends.
For Ghulam Nabi Azad, this election marks a significant test of his popularity in his home state since his departure from the Congress. His decision to contest follows a series of public meetings aimed at gauging voter sentiments, reflecting broad support for his political endeavors.
Jammu and Kashmir, stripped of its special status under Article 370 in August 2019 and bifurcated into two union territories, awaits its first Assembly election in six years. The Supreme Court’s mandate to hold Assembly elections by September 30 adds to the political urgency in the region.
Azad’s resignation from the Congress two years ago marked a significant shift in his political trajectory. Since then, he has actively engaged in public outreach, garnering what he describes as an “overwhelming response from all sections of society.”
As preparations for the upcoming polls gain momentum, Azad and his rivals find common ground on the issue of simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, reflecting a shared sentiment for electoral reform in Jammu and Kashmir. Azad’s emphasis on the need for synchronized elections underscores the evolving political discourse in the region.