Has the BJP Acknowledged Its Slim Chances of Victory in the Valley?
Jammu and kashmir assembly Elections: Today marks the final day for filing nominations for the third phase of the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Out of the 90 seats up for grabs, 43 are in Jammu and 47 in Kashmir. Despite the BJP's claims of ushering in a 'Naya Kashmir' following the abrogation of Article 370, it appears the party has recognized its slim chances of winning in the kashmir Valley. On Wednesday, the bjp announced it will contest only 19 of the 47 seats in the kashmir region. This list includes eight candidates from South kashmir (out of 16 seats), six from Central kashmir (out of 15 seats), and five from North kashmir (out of 16 seats).
This decision contrasts with Union home minister amit Shah’s earlier pledge that the bjp would contest all 90 seats in Jammu and Kashmir. By opting to skip 28 seats in the Valley, the BJP's strategy seems to be adapting to the political realities on the ground, despite the party's public assertion that it will form the government in the Union Territory.
With the majority mark set at 46 seats, the bjp is contesting a total of 62 seats. According to the indian Express, this move might further frustrate senior bjp leaders, who feel their contributions have been undervalued during the ticket distribution process. Reports suggest that some leaders privately believe this strategy reflects a lack of future prospects within the party. They are not expecting a dramatic turnaround in the kashmir Valley and are indirectly relying on independent candidates who might pull off unexpected victories. Rivals like the National Conference and the Peoples Democratic party (PDP) have accused the bjp of backing 'proxy' candidates in the election.
The BJP's decision to field only 19 candidates in the Valley indicates a recognition of its failure to win widespread support there. These 19 candidates are now crucial to the BJP's hopes for victory and government formation in the state.
Meanwhile, the congress and National Conference have formed an alliance to challenge the bjp, while the PDP is running solo after not securing a place in the india bloc for the assembly elections. Other regional parties and independent candidates are expected to play a pivotal role in this multi-cornered contest.