In the past, parliamentary elections in Jammu and Kashmir were a battleground for mainstream political parties and separatist groups advocating for Kashmir’s independence or accession to Pakistan. However, this year’s election marked a significant departure, with mainstream parties dominating the electoral landscape for the first time in decades.
This shift is attributed to the revocation of J&K’s special status in 2019, which stripped the former state of its semi-autonomous status and divided it into two Union Territories. The absence of separatists, who traditionally called for election boycotts, allowed mainstream parties to focus on local issues and engage with voters directly.
The change in electoral dynamics was reflected in the increased voter turnout, which reached 38% in Baramulla and 59% in Anantnag. In the 1999 election, voter turnout in these constituencies had been a mere 11.8% and 27.8%, respectively.
Mainstream parties held rallies and conducted door-to-door campaigns in areas that were once considered strongholds of militancy. They also engaged lyricists and singers to enhance their appeal to voters.
On polling day, voters with varied ideologies were seen casting their ballots, indicating a shift away from the traditional focus on sadak, bilji, pani (road, electricity, water) as the primary campaign issues. Instead, voters engaged in debates about Article 370, employment opportunities, mining rights, and police verification.
This change in electoral dynamics underscores a growing acceptance of mainstream politics in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as a desire for stability and development in the region.
