The Election Commission of India has announced assembly elections for Haryana, Jammu, and Kashmir, marking the first major political contest since the Lok Sabha elections. The Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls are especially noteworthy as they will be the first in a decade and follow the region’s special status revocation.
Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections will be held in three phases starting September 18, with counting scheduled for October 4. The polls in Jammu and Kashmir will mark the first since the region’s special status was revoked in August 2019. Meanwhile, Haryana will vote in a single phase on October 1, also with results to be counted on October 4.
This election is the first major political event since the Lok Sabha elections. The Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections are highly anticipated as the region faces its first electoral test after losing its special status and statehood. The previous assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir were held in November-December 2014. The political landscape has changed significantly since then, with the BJP and PDP’s coalition government dissolving in 2018 and the state remaining without an assembly since then.
The Supreme Court has mandated that elections in Jammu and Kashmir be held by September 30, 2024, and has urged for the restoration of statehood. In the recent Lok Sabha elections, the National Conference and BJP won two seats each, while an Independent candidate also secured a seat. The PDP, led by Mehbooba Mufti, is looking for a comeback after a poor showing in the Lok Sabha elections. Congress plans to contest all 90 seats, focusing its efforts in Jammu, while the BJP aims to consolidate its position in the state.
Haryana
In Haryana, where the BJP-led government’s term ends in November, a five-way contest is anticipated among the BJP, Congress, JJP, INLD, and AAP. The BJP and JJP’s alliance ended earlier this year, leading to political shifts and new leadership in Haryana. The Congress, having gained momentum from recent victories, and AAP, energised by internal developments, are key contenders.
Election Commission Delays Maharashtra Assembly Elections
The Election Commission has also announced a delay in Maharashtra’s assembly elections due to security concerns, ongoing monsoon, and cultural events. The electoral process for Maharashtra was originally planned alongside Haryana, but complications in Jammu and Kashmir and logistical challenges in Maharashtra necessitated adjustments.
