Polling began early Tuesday morning in the Budgam Assembly constituency of Jammu & Kashmir, marking a pivotal by-election that could reshape the region’s political narrative. With tight security arrangements in place, officials confirmed that voting commenced at 7 a.m. across 173 polling stations and will continue until 6 p.m.
According to the Election Department, over 1.26 lakh registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots, choosing from 17 candidates vying for victory in this high-stakes contest. The bypoll was triggered after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah vacated the Budgam seat, having also won from his family’s stronghold in Ganderbal during last year’s assembly elections.
Historically, Budgam has been a National Conference (NC) fortress, with its candidates winning consistently since 1962—except once, in 1972, when the Congress secured the seat. The constituency has long been seen as a symbol of loyalty and legacy for the NC.
This time, the battle is intense. Aga Syed Mehmood of the ruling National Conference faces a tough challenge from the People’s Democratic Party’s Aga Muntazir, setting up a crucial Shia-versus-Shia contest that underscores the political dynamics of central Kashmir. Other contenders include Syed Mohsin of the BJP, Nazir Ahmad Khan from the Awami Ittehad Party, Deeba Khan of the Aam Aadmi Party, and independent candidate Muntazir Mohiuddin—each hoping to sway the electorate with promises of development, inclusion, and reform.
For many in Budgam, today is not just about electing a representative—it’s about reclaiming trust, voicing aspirations, and shaping the region’s future. Amidst guarded optimism and civic enthusiasm, residents queued early, determined to make their vote count.
As the ballots are cast and counted, Budgam stands as a reflection of Kashmir’s evolving democratic spirit—where every citizen, every voice, and every choice carries the power to influence change.
