The return of the mainstream in Jammu & Kashmir has marked a pivotal moment in the region's history. The Jammu and Kashmir 2024 elections showcased a shift in the political landscape, with the National Conference (NC)-Congress coalition emerging victorious amid rising political tensions and demands for the restoration of J&K’s statehood. For a region that has experienced years of turmoil, this election not only brought back mainstream politics but also ignited new hope among the people.
A Historic Election Amidst High Stakes
The last time voters in Jammu & Kashmir went to the polls for an assembly election, the region was still a full state, enjoying the autonomy granted by Article 370. Fast forward to September 2024, and much has changed. After the Indian government’s move to revoke the special status of Jammu & Kashmir in August 2019, the political atmosphere was charged with uncertainties. Yet, the 2024 J&K elections saw a resounding turnout, reflecting the people's desire for stability and governance.
For the National Conference, led by Omar Abdullah, this election represented a chance at redemption. In partnership with the Congress, the NC secured a significant victory, sweeping through Jammu and Kashmir's most volatile regions. This election, which took place in one of the most militarized regions of the world, was seen as a major victory for Indian democracy. Despite security challenges and the looming presence of separatist sentiment, the people of J&K came out in droves to vote for change.
National Conference and Congress Coalition: A Powerful Combination
The success of the NC-Congress coalition can be attributed to multiple factors. First, the coalition managed to nullify smaller players like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), once led by Mehbooba Mufti, and the People’s Conference, led by Sajjad Gani Lone. These parties had been popular in earlier elections but failed to resonate with voters in 2024. The PDP’s collapse in particular was striking, with the party losing its foothold in the Valley, including in Mehbooba’s stronghold of Bijbehara.
The National Conference’s careful campaign planning and vast grassroots network enabled it to re-establish credibility among ordinary Kashmiris. The NC's narrative drew on its rich history, particularly the contributions of Sheikh Abdullah. In addition, the NC was able to energize its base by highlighting the Article 370 revocation, the loss of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, and the need for strong governance to counter separatist ideologies.
Restoration of Statehood and Everyday Governance
For many voters, the election wasn't just about big-ticket issues like Article 370 or Jammu & Kashmir's statehood restoration. Everyday concerns such as rising electricity prices, infrastructure problems, and water shortages also played a critical role. The NC-Congress coalition capitalized on these issues, offering a balanced manifesto that addressed both ideological matters and practical governance concerns.
A Resounding Rejection of Separatism
Perhaps the most significant takeaway from the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir elections is the decisive rejection of separatism by the people. While separatist leaders have had influence in the region in the past, this election saw voters turning their backs on extremist ideologies and placing their faith in mainstream politics. The NC’s triumph across various parts of the Valley, including regions with strong separatist sentiment, signaled a major shift toward moderate, constructive politics.
This return to mainstream politics is not just a personal victory for leaders like Omar Abdullah; it’s a victory for Indian democracy. By rejecting separatist ideologies and electing moderate leaders, the people of Jammu & Kashmir have shown their commitment to stability, peace, and governance within the Indian Union.
A Collapsing PDP and the Rise of NC
One of the biggest surprises of the Jammu and Kashmir 2024 elections was the steep fall of the PDP. Once the largest party in the 2014 elections, the PDP could barely hold onto a handful of seats in 2024. This decline left the field wide open for the National Conference to consolidate its position as the dominant force in J&K politics. Even Mehbooba Mufti’s daughter, Iltija, faced defeat in the family's stronghold, further demonstrating the party’s waning influence.
The return of the mainstream in Jammu & Kashmir is significant not only for the region but also for the broader political discourse in India. This election reaffirmed the idea that democracy can thrive, even in the most challenging conditions, and that people’s aspirations for better governance and development will always triumph over extremist narratives.
The Future of Politics in Jammu & Kashmir
As the newly elected leaders take office, the focus will likely shift to rebuilding Jammu & Kashmir, both politically and economically. The restoration of statehood will continue to be a pressing issue for the people of J&K, and the new government will need to engage with the central administration to ensure a stable and prosperous future for the region.
Moreover, the National Conference’s return to power could pave the way for renewed efforts toward reconciliation and development in Jammu and Kashmir. The return of the mainstream in Jammu & Kashmir signals that the region is ready to move beyond the dark chapters of its past and work towards a brighter future under democratic leadership.
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Conclusion
The 2024 J&K assembly elections have reshaped the political landscape in the region. The National Conference-Congress coalition's victory underscores a significant shift back to mainstream politics, as voters rejected separatism and extremist ideologies in favor of moderate and constructive governance. As Jammu & Kashmir moves forward, the return to mainstream politics brings hope for a stable, democratic future, with the promise of a restored statehood and improved governance for all.
