AAP, Shiv Sena make historic debut in J&K assembly elections

After 15 years, LJP seeks to open account, CPIM's Tarigami eyes fifth term

JAMMU: The assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are witnessing a significant shift as several new and returning political parties are entering the fray. Notably, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Shiv Sena, and Ekam Sanatan Bharat Party are contesting for the first time in these elections.
Although AAP has been active in Jammu and Kashmir since 2012, it did not participate in the 2014 assembly elections. This time, however, the party is determined to make a mark. The state president of AAP, Rafiq Malik, expressed confidence in creating a new history by registering a victory in these elections, following the directive from the party’s high command.
In addition to these parties, five other political entities from outside Jammu and Kashmir have also entered the electoral battlefield. Among them are the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM), and Lok Jan Shakti Party (LJP), each with varying degrees of previous experience in the region’s elections.
The LJP, in particular, is making its return to the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections after a gap of 15 years. The party last contested in 2008, fielding candidates in 60 constituencies, but none of them were successful. This time, LJP is eager to reverse its fortunes and will be contesting on all available seats.
Of the prominent political parties from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, BSP and LJP have shown interest in Jammu and Kashmir, but only BSP has previously succeeded in winning a seat. The LJP, despite its previous efforts, has yet to open its account in the region. The 2008 elections were particularly disappointing for LJP, leading the party to avoid participating in the 2014 assembly elections. Now, with renewed determination, the LJP aims to establish its presence in the state’s political landscape.
Meanwhile, CPIM has a stronger track record in Jammu and Kashmir, having won the Kulgam seat four times consecutively from 1996 to 2014. Their candidate, Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami, is vying for victory once again, aiming for a fifth term in office. The party’s consistent performance in the Kulgam constituency makes them a formidable contender in these elections.
The BSP, another key player, had previously opened its account in Jammu and Kashmir in 1996 and 2002. However, the party faced defeat in the 2008 elections. Despite this setback, the BSP is poised to challenge its opponents by making inroads into the vote bank once again. The party’s appeal, particularly among the Scheduled Castes (SC) community, could pose a significant challenge to the opposition, as it seeks to regain its footing in the state’s political arena.
Overall, the entry of these new and returning parties adds a dynamic layer to the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, making the outcome unpredictable and potentially reshaping the region’s political milieu.

Updated On 9/5/2024 3:26:15 AM