Ishtiyaq Kar

Srinagar, Aug 29 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory is gearing up for a tough battle as the first phase of the much-awaited assembly elections begins on September 18.
Out of 90 total seats, 24 will be contested in this first phase. This election is especially significant because it's the first assembly election in the region in over ten years.

Many different parties are competing, and the results could be surprising and difficult to predict.
The elections, to be conducted in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, with counting on October 4, will see the National Conference (NC)-Congress alliance facing its toughest challenge yet.
The alliance will be put to the test as it competes against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and a slew of new parties and influential independents aiming to make their mark.
The political situation in Jammu and Kashmir has changed a lot since the last elections, with several new parties joining the race.
These include the Apni Party, the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), and the Peoples Conference. Although these parties didn't have much success in the recent parliamentary elections, they are expected to be strong contenders in the assembly elections, especially in areas where they have traditionally been popular.
“The first phase is crucial as it will set the tone for the entire election,” said a senior political analyst. “With so many players in the field, it’s difficult to predict the outcome. The NC-Congress alliance may face a stiff challenge from the BJP, as well as from the new parties and independents who could upset the traditional power balance."
The BJP is leaving no stone unturned in its bid to expand its influence in the region.
As per news agency KNS, the party is mobilizing its top leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, to lead rallies for BJP candidates, particularly in the Hindu-majority seats of the Jammu region.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
One BJP leader said that their focus is on showing the people of Jammu and Kashmir the development work they've done over the years. They believe voters will recognize these efforts and choose a stable government that focuses on development.
On the other side, the Congress, along with its ally, the National Conference (NC), is presenting itself as the party that can bring harmony and balance to the region’s diverse communities.
This alliance is expected to be strong, especially in the Kashmir Valley, where the BJP has typically struggled.
A Congress leader, who preferred to remain anonymous, criticized the BJP, saying they haven't fulfilled their promises and have only caused more divisions. “The Congress aims to unite the people and work towards a peaceful and prosperous future for everyone”.
Omar Abdullah, the NC leader, highlighted the need for local governance during a recent rally. He said, "This election isn’t just about power; it’s about the future of Jammu and Kashmir. The people here have suffered enough. We need a government that understands the real issues and works for the people."
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Mehbooba Mufti, is concentrating on its traditional strongholds, focusing its campaign on protecting Article 370 and restoring statehood. The party is expected to put up a strong fight in areas where it has historically been popular.
As the election approaches, major parties are stepping up their campaigns with big public rallies and important speeches. The BJP and Congress, in particular, are likely to have heated debates, each claiming to be the best choice for Jammu and Kashmir's future while criticizing each other’s plans and achievements.
With so much on the line, these assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are expected to be one of the most closely watched political events in recent years. (KNS)