The upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir have seen a controversial nomination from Sarjan Ahmad Wagay, a prominent Kashmiri separatist leader. Wagay, popularly known as Sarjan Barkati, is a well-known figure in the region, particularly for his role in the protests that erupted following the killing of Burhan Wani in 2016. Wani, the top district commander of Hizbul Mujahideen, became a symbol of militancy in Kashmir, and his death led to widespread unrest and violence.
Barkati, arrested in 2016 for his role in the protests and again in 2023 on terror-funding charges, is now contesting the Zainpora Assembly constituency in Shopian district. His daughter, Sugra Barkati, has filed nomination papers on his behalf and will be campaigning for him, unless the nomination is rejected. The first phase of voting in Jammu and Kashmir is scheduled for September 18th.
The State Investigation Agency (SIA), which arrested Barkati in August 2023, alleges that he was involved in an extensive fundraising campaign that generated crores of rupees through crowd-funding. The agency claims these funds were misused for money laundering and acquisition of undisclosed assets, all in an effort to promote radicalism within the Kashmir Valley.
Barkati’s political foray comes at a time when Jammu and Kashmir is gearing up for its 90-member assembly elections, which will be held in three phases. The first phase, scheduled for September 18th, will see voting in 24 assembly segments across seven districts, including 16 in the Valley and 8 in the Jammu region. A total of 279 candidates have filed their nomination papers for this first phase.
Barkati’s candidacy has raised eyebrows, particularly considering his recent arrest and the allegations against him. His participation in the elections highlights the complex political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir and the ongoing tensions between the government and separatist groups. It remains to be seen how his candidacy will impact the election results and the future of the region.
Furthermore, the upcoming elections will also see the participation of former members of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, who have filed nomination papers as independent candidates. The Jamaat, banned by the Union Home Ministry, had shown interest in participating in the polls during the Lok Sabha elections but ultimately did not participate. Their presence in the upcoming assembly elections further underscores the multifaceted nature of the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir.
