Two days after the result of the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat was declared, former chief minister and the National Conference candidate Omar Abdullah cautioned that the victory of Engineer Rashid will empower secessionists.
In the 2023 Lok Sabha election campaign, Omar Abdullah of JKNC took centre stage, marginalizing the party's older and younger generations. His father, Dr Farooq Abdullah, declined to contest due to health issues, signalling a possible informal retirement. Despite not running, Farooq actively participated in rallies, maintaining his public presence. Farooq's health has been fragile since a 2014 kidney transplant. Although Omar insisted his father's political career isn't over, Farooq's active role has diminished. JKNC's internal dynamics and generational shifts reflect broader political changes, with the party grappling with its identity and strategic decisions post-Article 370 abrogation.
As protests over skyrocketing prices of food, fuel, and other basic necessities reach a boiling point in PoK, the current electoral buzz in Kashmir, the high voter turnout, and the peaceful conduct of elections are indicative of a society moving forward towards a more democratic future
The ongoing Lok Sabha election is a critical test for Mehbooba Mufti's JKPDP, which aims to prove its continued existence amidst challenging times. The decision not to ally with JKNC under the PAGD has intensified this test. Despite being part of the INDIA alliance, PDP finds itself marginalized, with local Congressmen favouring JKNC. Mehbooba Mufti contests almost solo, burdened by accusations of enabling BJP's entry into Jammu and Kashmir. The party has suffered significant desertions, with many leaders joining the JKAP. Mufti blames BJP's strategies for weakening PDP, but emphasizes the loyalty of remaining members. The PDP's past coalition with BJP, which ended contentiously in 2018, has left it facing blame and a fragmented alliance. Despite criticisms, Mehbooba focuses on the broader objective of non-polarization and continuity of the party. Currently isolated within the INDIA bloc, PDP faces opposition from JKNC and accusations of being a BJP proxy. Mufti, ho