The results may have been surprising, but the free and fair polls strengthened the belief of people in the democratic process.

 

The much-awaited results of the Assembly Elections finally came out this afternoon, and the outcome was, on many accounts, surprising and unprecedented. The National Conference-Congress alliance broke all previous records by securing almost all seats in the Kashmir Valley, whereas the Bharatiya Janata Party walked away with a major chunk of seats from the Jammu Division. However, it failed to make any impact in the Valley, while Congress faced defeat in the Jammu Division.

 

After years of President's Rule and political uncertainty, the assembly elections held from September 18 to October 1, 2024, marked a significant milestone in the region's journey towards democratic restoration post-370 abrogation and the bifurcation of the State into two Union Territories.

 

With a significant turnout of 63.88%, these elections are a testament to the people's desire for democratic participation. The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, comprising the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference, Indian National Congress, and Communist Party of India (Marxist), emerged as the largest alliance, winning 49 seats, surprising many in political circles. However, the people made their voices heard loud and clear in favor of the alliance in the Valley and for the BJP in the Jammu region, where it secured the highest-ever tally of 29 seats. But whatever the electoral outcome in terms of seats, the real and significant result of these elections, which were held after a decade, has been the overwhelming participation of people in the democratic process and the trust they reposed in the Government of India and the Election Commission of India.

 

The free and fair assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are crucial for strengthening democracy and giving the people a voice in their governance.

 

However, the road to these elections was paved with challenges. The revocation of Article 370 in 2019 and the subsequent reorganization of the state into Union Territories had created uncertainty about the region's political future. The Supreme Court's verdict upholding the abrogation of Article 370 and directing the Election Commission to hold elections before September 30, 2024, was a significant turning point that saw a new dawn breaking in the political horizons of Jammu and Kashmir.

 

Key Players in the Elections

 

-Jammu and Kashmir National Conference: Led by Omar Abdullah, the party won 42 seats, emerging as the largest party in the alliance with a strike rate of more than 80 percent.

 

-Bharatiya Janata Party: The party contested 62 seats, winning 29 seats.

 

-Jammu and Kashmir People's Democratic Party: Led by Mehbooba Mufti, the party contested 81 seats but won only 3 seats.

 

The successful conduct of these elections demonstrates the Government of India's commitment to democratic processes in the region. Many political leaders were skeptical about the fairness of the elections and even voiced their concerns publicly; however, the results have not only proven them wrong but also strengthened the trust and belief of the people and the political class of Jammu and Kashmir in the fairness and impartiality of the democratic process. This fairness and letting people choose their representatives without any interference is appreciable, for which the Narendra Modi-led Union Government and the ECI must be given full credit and acknowledgment.

 

However, the real test lies ahead—in ensuring that the elected representatives work towards the betterment of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

 

The Way Forward

 

Inclusive Governance: The newly elected government must prioritize inclusive governance, addressing the concerns of all regions and communities.

 

Development and Economic Growth: Focus on developing the region's infrastructure, promoting tourism, and creating employment opportunities.

 

Restoring Trust: The government must work to restore trust among the people and ensure accountability.

 

The Government of India deserves full credit for conducting free and fair assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. This milestone demonstrates the government's commitment to democracy and its ability to overcome challenges.

 

The Election Commission of India played a crucial role in ensuring the elections were conducted smoothly and fairly, allowing the people of Jammu and Kashmir to exercise their right to vote without undue influence.

 

In conclusion, the free and fair assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir mark a new chapter in the region's democratic journey. It is essential for all stakeholders—the Government of India, the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and the political parties—to work together towards a brighter future for the region.