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Female Candidates Surge: 41 Women Contest in J&K Assembly Elections, Three Elected

October 9, 2024, 2:34 pm

In the recent Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, three women were elected among the 90 members, marking a significant moment after a decade-long hiatus in polling. The National Conference (NC) and Congress alliance secured 48 seats, but only two of the 30 Hindu candidates from the bloc emerged victorious.

The elected women include Shagun Parihar from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Shamima Firdous and Sakina Itoo from the National Conference. Their representation accounts for only 3.33 percent of the assembly, highlighting the need for greater female participation in politics.

In total, 41 women contested in these elections, an increase from 24 candidates in 2014.

Election Results Overview

– National Conference (NC) and Indian National Congress (INC): 48 seats won, with only two Hindu candidates successful out of the 30 fielded.
– Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): 29 seats secured, comprising 28 Hindu and one Sikh member, with no wins among their Muslim candidates, including two former ministers.

Profiles of the Elected Women

Shagun Parihar

Shagun Parihar, representing the BJP, won the Kishtwar constituency by 521 votes, defeating National Conference candidate Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo. At just 29, she is a research scholar with an MTech in electrical power systems, and was preparing for a PhD and the J&K Public Service Commission exams when nominated for the election. Tragically, her father, Ajit Parihar, and brother, Anil, who was then the BJP state secretary, were killed by terrorists in 2018.

Shamima Firdous

Shamima Firdous, a senior leader in the National Conference and the party’s women’s wing president, won her seat in Habbakadal by a significant margin of 9,538 votes against BJP’s Ashok Kumar Bhat. This victory brings her back to a position she previously held from 2008 to 2014. Since her party lost power in 2014, Firdous has worked diligently to mobilize women party workers in Srinagar and across the Valley, strengthening the party’s support base.

Sakina Itoo

Sakina Itoo, another senior National Conference leader and former minister, secured her seat from the DH Pora assembly segment in Kulgam district with 36,623 votes, winning by an impressive 17,449 votes over her nearest rival from the Peoples Democratic Party. With extensive experience, Itoo has held various ministerial roles, including social welfare, education, and tourism. She made history in 1996 as the youngest member of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly at the age of 26.

J&K Final Election Phase Sees 65% Voter Turnout

October 1, 2024, 8:59 pm

The third and final phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections recorded an impressive voter turnout of 65.48% across 40 constituencies, marking a key moment in the region’s democratic process. Voters from seven districts participated actively, demonstrating robust engagement in this first election since the abrogation of Article 370. Notable constituencies like Gurez and Chhamb witnessed the highest turnouts of over 75%. The elections, held after a decade-long gap, are seen as crucial for shaping the political future of Jammu and Kashmir.

This election is particularly significant for the Union Territory, being the first since the 2019 constitutional changes. The overall high voter participation highlights the public’s enthusiasm despite the sensitive political context. The outcome will play a key role in determining how the region’s governance is restructured, as the voting follows recent delimitation efforts that increased the number of constituencies, setting the stage for a new political era in Jammu and Kashmir.

The voter turnout, although steady across most areas, saw variations. Some constituencies like Kupwara and Baramulla recorded lower percentages, while Handwara showed a strong turnout with over 69%. The polling exercise itself proceeded without major disruptions, signaling the success of the electoral process in maintaining security and ensuring smooth participation despite potential challenges.

Also read: Rahul Gandhi’s Freudian Slip in Jammu Rally Exposes Kashmir Tensions

This high turnout indicates a renewed political engagement and is expected to influence the trajectory of future governance in the Union Territory. With results set to be announced soon, this election will be closely watched as it defines the new political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir

Farooq Abdullah Criticizes Centre for Inviting Foreign Diplomats to Observe J&K Assembly Elections

September 25, 2024, 1:56 pm

Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) President Farooq Abdullah and Vice President Omar Abdullah displayed their inked fingers after casting their votes in the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections.

On September 25, 2024, Omar Abdullah expressed his discontent with the Centre’s decision to invite foreign diplomats to observe the ongoing Assembly elections, asserting that the polls are an internal affair for India and stating, “We do not need their certificate.”

During a press conference, Abdullah questioned why foreign observers were necessary, especially when the Indian government often emphasizes that such matters are internal. He described the invitation as a “guided tour,” suggesting it was an attempt by the Centre to take undue credit for the public’s participation in the elections, which he viewed as a betrayal of the local populace.

Voting took place for 26 seats across six districts, with a delegation of 16 diplomats visiting at the invitation of the Ministry of External Affairs to monitor the election process.

Abdullah remarked that the Assembly elections in J&K are “an internal matter for us,” insisting that the participation observed was not due to the government’s efforts but despite the government’s previous actions. He highlighted how the government has historically detained and harassed citizens, yet they still showed up to vote.

He further challenged the inconsistency in the government’s stance on foreign involvement, asking why foreign journalists were barred from covering the elections while diplomats were given special access.

The Assembly polls mark the first in a decade and the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Abdullah expressed optimism for voter turnout in the second phase, emphasizing that the enthusiasm seen in political rallies should translate into votes.

As he campaigned for two seats in Ganderbal and Budgam, Abdullah stressed that all election days are significant, not just for him personally but for the party as a whole. He conveyed a sense of hope, stating, “Hope is what keeps the world moving.”

Responding to allegations from PDP President Mehbooba Mufti about bogus voting in Ganderbal and Budgam, Abdullah noted that the PDP seems to be realizing their declining support. He remarked on the internal strife within the PDP and their loss of influence in the face of shifting political alliances.

Regarding Rahul Gandhi’s visit to J&K, Abdullah commented that while it is beneficial for the Congress leader to campaign in Kashmir, he hopes the Congress will focus more on Jammu, highlighting the party’s lack of engagement in that region compared to the National Conference’s efforts. Gandhi is scheduled to address a rally in Sopore later that day.

PM Modi Urges Large Turnout in Second Phase of J&K Assembly Elections

September 25, 2024, 9:20 am

As polling for the second phase of elections begins in Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called on voters to turn out in large numbers to help “strengthen democracy.”

“Today is the second phase of voting for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. I urge all voters to cast their ballots and play a key role in fortifying democracy,” PM Modi said.

Polling started at 7 a.m. across 3,502 polling stations in 26 Assembly constituencies spread over six districts: Ganderbal, Srinagar, and Budgam in the Kashmir Division, and Reasi, Rajouri, and Poonch in the Jammu Division.

With Jammu and Kashmir holding elections after a decade, PM Modi also extended congratulations to first-time voters. On his social media handle on X, he said, “On this occasion, I congratulate all young friends voting for the first time!”

Union Minister and BJP President JP Nadda also encouraged voters to participate, emphasizing that their involvement would create a “golden future” for the region. In a subtle criticism of the National Conference and Congress, Nadda remarked that “each vote will eliminate corruption and nepotism” in the region.

In his post on X, Nadda wrote, “I urge all voters, especially the youth participating in the second phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, to vote in large numbers. Your vote will bring service, good governance, and development, and free the region from corruption, nepotism, and disorder. Upholding democracy in Jammu and Kashmir is a shared responsibility, and your participation will shape its bright future.”

As voting got underway for this second phase, more than 2.5 million eligible voters are set to determine the fate of 239 candidates in 26 constituencies across the Union Territory.

Notable contenders include former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah, running for both Budgam and Ganderbal seats, Jammu and Kashmir BJP President Ravinder Raina from the Nowshera seat, and Pradesh Congress Committee President Tariq Hamid Karra contesting from the Central Shalteng seat.

The constituencies involved in this phase of elections are Kangan (ST), Ganderbal, Hazratbal, Khanyar, Habbakadal, Lal Chowk, Chanapora, Zadibal, Eidgah, Central Shalteng, Budgam, Beerwah, Khansahib, Chrar-i-Sharief, Chadoora, Gulabgarh (ST), Reasi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Kalakote-Sunderbani, Nowshera, Rajouri (ST), Budhal (ST), Thannamandi (ST), Surankote (ST), Poonch Haveli, and Mendhar (ST).

The final phase of voting is scheduled for October 1, with vote counting set for October 8.

WATCH: Voting Underway for 1st Phase of J&K Assembly Elections Amid High Security

September 18, 2024, 11:20 am

The first phase of Assembly elections is currently underway in Jammu and Kashmir, with significant voter participation expected. In Pulwama district, where two assembly constituencies are up for grabs, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) P. D. Nitya reported, “Voting is ongoing in Pulwama, with 245 polling stations set up. We anticipate a good voter turnout, and proper security arrangements have been implemented.”

High security has also been a focal point in the region, particularly for Kashmiri migrant voters, who are casting their ballots under strict measures. An NC candidate from the Doda Assembly constituency emphasized the sentiments of many voters, stating, “We want statehood and special status here,” reflecting the aspirations of constituents seeking greater autonomy.

#WATCH | Jammu: Kashmiri migrant voters cast their votes under high security.

(Visuals from ITI College Campus) pic.twitter.com/7FrwgQ2Nt3

— ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2024

In a related development, the INDIA bloc, comprising the Congress, DMK, and various communist parties, has called for a bandh in Puducherry today to protest the recent hike in power tariffs. This move signifies ongoing political mobilization around economic issues as voters head to the polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

As the election process unfolds, the focus remains on voter turnout and the security measures in place, underscoring the importance of this electoral phase for the region’s future.

J&K Assembly Elections: PM Modi to Address Election Rally on September 19

September 17, 2024, 8:17 pm

Preparations are in full swing in Srinagar ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled election rally on Thursday, September 19. The rally comes as the first phase of the three-phase assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir gets underway, with 24 constituencies across the Union Territory set to go to the polls on September 18.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Altaf Thakur shared details about the upcoming event, stating, “On September 19, PM Modi will address a public rally in Srinagar. Preparations are underway, and it is expected to be a very large rally. People are eager to hear him.” This will mark PM Modi’s third visit to Jammu and Kashmir this year.

Thakur added that the Prime Minister will also meet with the BJP’s 19 candidates running in the election, aiming to boost their morale and strengthen the party’s chances of success. “His interaction with party workers and candidates will help us in winning,” Thakur said.

Earlier, on September 14, PM Modi addressed a poll rally in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district. Meanwhile, Union Minister Jitendra Singh dismissed Congress’s claims about restoring statehood to the region, calling it a “fake narrative.” Singh emphasized that PM Modi had already promised statehood would be restored after the elections.

The assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are being held in three phases, with the second phase scheduled for September 25 and the third for October 1. The counting of votes will take place on October 8.

Omar Abdullah Questions Centre Over Rise in Terror Attacks in Jammu

September 17, 2024, 6:00 pm

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday questioned the central government, holding it responsible for the “increase” in terror attacks in the Jammu region. His remarks came ahead of the first phase of the three-phase assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, set to begin on September 18.

Speaking to reporters in Budgam, Abdullah challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the issue of security in Jammu. “Amit Shah sahab, please tell me, who is responsible for the rise in terrorism in Jammu?” Abdullah asked, citing recent attacks on pilgrims and soldiers in the region. He pointed out that the National Conference (NC) and Congress have been out of power for a decade, while the region has been under direct central rule for six years.

“If forces are attacked, if our brave soldiers are killed, who is responsible?” Abdullah questioned, linking the security lapses to the current BJP-led central government’s policies in Jammu and Kashmir.

Abdullah also expressed confidence that Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir before its abrogation in 2019, could be reinstated. He pointed to past Supreme Court rulings in favor of Article 370 and speculated that a future verdict from a larger bench could reverse the current decision. “Nothing is impossible,” Abdullah said, maintaining his optimism about the potential return of the provision.

The former chief minister’s comments come in response to Amit Shah’s recent statement, in which the Home Minister ruled out the possibility of reinstating Article 370. Speaking at a rally in Kishtwar on September 16, Shah declared, “Article 370 is now a part of history. There will only be one flag, and that is our Tricolour.”

As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for assembly elections, voters will head to the polls in three phases: on September 18, September 25, and November 1, with results set to be announced on October 8.

Paramilitary Forces Mobilised Ahead of J&K Assembly Elections Amid Rising Terror Threats

September 5, 2024, 4:45 pm

In preparation for the first assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir in a decade, the Union government has mobilised paramilitary forces to strengthen security across the region. The move comes in response to an increase in terror attacks in the hilly areas of Jammu since June.

Intelligence reports indicate that between 60 to 80 terrorists infiltrated the Jammu region in March and April this year, prompting Pakistani efforts to push more militants across the border. In response, Indian security forces have ramped up counter-insurgency operations to address the threat.

The army has deployed an additional 3,000 troops, including 500 para commandos, to fill gaps left by the redeployment of forces following the June 2020 Galwan clash with China in Ladakh. The Border Security Force (BSF) has also moved 2,000 personnel from Odisha to the international border in Jammu. Additionally, 2,000 men from the Assam Rifles have been sent from Manipur to bolster anti-terror operations.

Enhanced surveillance measures have been implemented along the 744-kilometer Line of Control (LoC) and the 198-kilometer international border. Security forces are using modern surveillance technologies to counter aerial threats, such as drones, and are conducting anti-tunneling operations to detect cross-border tunnels.

The BSF director general, Daljit Singh, visited the Jammu border on August 22 to assess the security situation. The Union government has retained around 450 paramilitary companies, initially deployed for the annual Amarnath Yatra, to assist with election security. An additional 450 companies have also been dispatched for poll-related duties, bringing the total to approximately 900 companies.

Security forces have adopted a proactive stance to pre-empt potential terror strikes in districts such as Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Bhaderwah, Ramban, Rajouri, and Poonch. Search operations in the upper reaches have been intensified, and security forces are monitoring highways to prevent terrorist “shoot-and-scoot” tactics.

Village Defence Guards (VDGs), composed of ex-servicemen, have been equipped with self-loading rifles (SLRs) and semi-automatic weapons to enhance village security. Former village head Dheeraj Sharma from Rajouri’s Dhangri praised the move, noting that the upgraded weaponry makes VDGs more effective in combating terrorists.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, addressing concerns about the security situation, affirmed on August 9 that democracy cannot be held hostage to terror activities, and expressed confidence in the capability of the forces and administration to handle any challenges.

The Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections are scheduled to take place in three phases—on September 18, 25, and October 1—with vote counting on October 8.

BJP Releases First List of 44 Candidates for J&K Assembly Elections

August 26, 2024, 12:13 pm

On Monday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unveiled its first list of 44 candidates for the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Notable candidates include Syed Wazahat from Anantnag, Kuldeep Raj Dubey from Reasi, and Gajay Singh Rana from Doda. Arshid Bhat will run from Rajpora, while Sushri Shagun Parihar is set to contest from Kishtwar. Pawan Gupta will contest in Udhampur West, Dr. Devinder Kumar Maniyal in Ramgarh (SC), and Mohan Lal Bhagat in Akhnoor. Rohit Dubey will compete in Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, and Chowdhary Abdul Ghani in Poonch Haveli.

The list was announced following a meeting of the BJP Central Election Committee chaired by JP Nadda, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah also in attendance.

Polling in Jammu and Kashmir is scheduled to occur in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, with vote counting slated for October 4, as per the Election Commission of India. The region has a total of 90 assembly constituencies, including 7 reserved for SCs and 9 for STs. The electorate in Jammu and Kashmir totals 88.06 lakh.

In the previous assembly elections, the PDP secured 28 seats, BJP won 25, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference took 15, and Congress won 12 seats. The PDP and BJP formed a coalition government under Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, but the BJP withdrew support in 2018 after Mehbooba Mufti succeeded Sayeed following his death.

These upcoming elections will be the first in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370.

Rajasthan CM Slams Cong-NC Alliance Ahead of J&K Assembly Elections

August 24, 2024, 10:47 pm

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma strongly criticized the Congress party for forming an alliance with the National Conference (NC) ahead of the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Sharma, addressing a press conference in Jaipur, accused Congress of betraying national unity and security for the sake of power.

Sharma condemned the alliance, saying, “The real character of Congress has been revealed today. The party, which has repeatedly jeopardized national unity and security for power, has now aligned with the National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir.” He questioned Rahul Gandhi about his stance on key issues such as the NC’s call for a separate flag for Jammu and Kashmir and the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A. Sharma challenged Gandhi to clarify whether he supports these positions of the National Conference, which had previously advocated for the return of these provisions.

Sharma further criticized Congress for potentially supporting the restoration of corruption. He stated, “The abrogation of Article 370 ended corruption in the region. Does Congress want to bring corruption back into the system? The National Conference misled the youth of Kashmir, and now, as the youth integrate into the mainstream, why is Congress obstructing their progress?” His remarks reflect the broader concerns about the impact of the alliance on governance and development in the region.

The Congress-NC pre-poll alliance was formalized following a meeting between Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, and NC leader Farooq Abdullah. The announcement came after Farooq Abdullah stated that the alliance would contest all 90 assembly seats in the upcoming polls. Abdullah confirmed the partnership in Srinagar, noting that the seat-sharing details would be released later. The alliance was solidified after discussions between Abdullah and his son Omar with Kharge and Gandhi. Abdullah expressed confidence that the coalition would perform well and address the needs of the people, emphasizing unity and cooperation.

The Congress-NC alliance follows their previous cooperation in the Lok Sabha elections, where the National Conference secured two seats—Anantnag and Srinagar—while Congress did not win any. The upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are scheduled to take place in three phases: September 18, September 25, and October 1. The results will be announced on October 4. This will be the first assembly election in the region since the abrogation of Article 370, which had previously granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The Election Commission has issued a notification for the first phase, which will cover 24 seats. This election marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, with the newly formed alliance playing a crucial role in shaping the future governance of the region.

NC And Congress finalise Alliance For All 90 J&K Assembly Seats

August 22, 2024, 9:30 pm

National Conference (NC) president, Farooq Abdullah, announced today that his party has finalised an alliance with Congress for all 90 assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir. The confirmation came following a meeting between Abdullah and Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge at Abdullah’s residence.

“We had a good meeting in a cordial atmosphere. The alliance is on track and, God willing, it will run smoothly. The alliance is final. It will be signed this evening and the alliance covers all 90 seats,” Abdullah told reporters.

The announcement comes ahead of the three-phase Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled for September 18, September 25, and October 1. The results will be declared on October 4.

Abdullah also mentioned the involvement of CPI(M) leader M.Y. Tarigami in the alliance and expressed confidence in securing a significant victory. “I hope our people are with us too, and that we win with a huge majority to improve the lives of the people,” he said.

When asked about Rahul Gandhi’s earlier assurance that restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is a priority for the Congress and the I.N.D.I.A. bloc, Abdullah expressed optimism. “Statehood is very important for all of us. This has been promised to us. This state has witnessed bad days, and we hope it will be restored with its full powers. For that, we stand together with the I.N.D.I,A. bloc,” he added.

This alliance sets the stage for a united opposition front as Jammu and Kashmir heads into its first Assembly elections since the abrogation of Article 370 and the state’s reorganisation into a union territory in 2019.

Reasi District Magistrate Orders Weapon Deposit Ahead of J&K Assembly Elections

August 21, 2024, 9:21 am

The District Magistrate of Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir, has instructed police authorities to facilitate the depositing of weapons ahead of the Assembly elections set to begin in the third week of September. According to a communication from the District Magistrate’s Office dated August 20, this measure aims to maintain law and order and ensure a peaceful, free, and fair environment for the upcoming Legislative Assembly Elections 2024. The order, signed by Additional District Magistrate Kul Bhushan Khajuria, requires all valid licensed weapon holders to deposit their weapons at the nearest police station, where they will be stored in Malkhanas with proper receipts. However, security personnel working in banks, ATMs, and railway companies within the district are exempt from this requirement.

The Election Commission issued the notification for the first phase of the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, officially commencing the nomination process. In this phase, 24 Assembly seats will go to the polls on September 18. The deadline for filing nominations is August 27, with scrutiny scheduled for August 28 and the last date for withdrawal of candidacies set for August 30.

The constituencies that will vote in the first phase include Pampore, Tral, Pulwama, Rajpora, Zainapora, Shopian, D H Pora, Kulgam, Devsar, Dooru, Kokernag (ST), Anantnag West, Anantnag, Srigufwara-Bijbehara, Shangus-Anantnag East, Pahalgam, Inderwal, Kishtwar, Padder-Nagseni, Bhadarwah, Doda, Doda West, Ramban, and Banihal.

A total of 90 assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir will participate in the elections, the first since 2014. The counting of votes is scheduled for October 4.

J&K Assembly Elections: ECI Issues Notification for 1st Phase of Polls

August 20, 2024, 4:21 pm

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday issued the official notification for the first phase of the General Elections to the Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir.

According to an official statement, 24 Assembly constituencies (ACs) in the districts of Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar will head to the polls in the first phase. The remaining constituencies will go to the polls in the second and third phases.

In the Kashmir Division, 16 Assembly constituencies will be contested, including 32- Pampore; 33- Tral; 34- Pulwama; 35- Rajpora; 36- Zainapora; 37- Shopian; 38- D.H. Pora; 39- Kulgam; 40- Devsar; 41- Dooru; 42- Kokernag (ST); 43- Anantnag West; 44- Anantnag; 45- Srigufwara–Bijbehara; 46- Shangus-Anantnag East; and 47- Pahalgam. In the Jammu Division, 8 constituencies are scheduled to vote, including 48- Inderwal; 49- Kishtwar; 50- Padder–Nagseni; 51- Bhadarwah; 52- Doda; 53- Doda West; 54- Ramban; and 55- Banihal.

The notification specifies that the last date for filing nominations is August 27, 2024. The scrutiny of nomination papers will occur on August 28, 2024, and the final date for withdrawal of candidature is August 30, 2024.

Polling for these Assembly constituencies is scheduled for September 18, 2024, with voting to be conducted between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM, the notification

Another SSP Of Jammu & Kashmir Police Resigns, Eyes Assembly Elections

August 8, 2024, 3:01 pm

Jammu, Aug 7: With the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections expected in September, political activity in the region is gaining momentum. In a significant development, SSP Mohan Lal Kaith, a senior officer from the 2003 batch of the Kashmir Police Service (KPS), has resigned from his position, sparking speculation about his entry into the political arena.

Kaith submitted his resignation to the J&K Home Department, indicating his potential shift from a law enforcement career to pursuing a role in politics. This move comes on the heels of the resignation of another senior police officer, SSP Mohan Lal, who is reportedly preparing to contest from the SC-reserved Akhnoor Assembly constituency.

Sources suggest that SSP Kaith is currently in discussions with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with a focus on securing a nomination for the SC-reserved Marh Assembly seat. The BJP is believed to be considering both officers as strong contenders, aiming to leverage their public service backgrounds to strengthen the party’s position in the upcoming elections.

As the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir continues to shift, further developments are expected in the lead-up to the elections.