BJP Leads in Haryana, Faces Setback in Jammu & Kashmir State Elections
In two key state elections, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in the northern state of Haryana but appears to be falling short in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, where an opposition alliance of the Congress party and the National Conference (NC) is ahead as votes are being counted.
These elections mark the first state-level contests since India’s general election earlier this year, where the BJP retained power with a reduced majority. A win in Haryana would be a significant achievement for the BJP, securing a third consecutive term in the state.
While pre-election surveys had predicted a landslide victory for Congress in Haryana, early results show a stronger-than-expected performance by the BJP. In contrast, exit polls suggested a hung assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, but current trends indicate that the Congress-NC alliance could be poised to form the government.
Key Results in Jammu & Kashmir
The state of Jammu and Kashmir, which has 90 assembly seats, is seeing a competitive race. The Congress-NC coalition is leading in around 51 seats, while the BJP is ahead in 26, with its success primarily driven by strong support in the Hindu-majority Jammu region. These figures may shift as vote counting continues.
This election holds particular significance as it is the first assembly vote in Jammu and Kashmir since the Indian government revoked the region’s autonomous status in 2019, converting it into a federally administered territory. Political leaders from both major parties promised to restore full statehood if elected, offering voters a glimmer of hope after years without local representation.
Many residents expressed skepticism about the influence the new government would have, given that major decisions would still require approval from the federally appointed lieutenant governor.
Impact of Anti-Incumbency and Key Issues
In Haryana, the BJP faced the challenge of anti-incumbency after a decade in power. The Congress party capitalized on public dissatisfaction, particularly surrounding the controversial farm laws—which were later withdrawn—and the short-term army recruitment scheme known as Agniveer. These issues sparked protests, particularly in Haryana, where agriculture and military service are central to the state’s economy.
However, the BJP’s strong showing defies predictions, putting the party on track for a third straight win in Haryana. The outcome of these elections could shape political momentum as India prepares for its next general elections in 2024.
Regional Challenges and Security Concerns
Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape remains complex, with violence and insurgency continuing to affect the region. The elections were closely watched, with federal officials promoting them as evidence of normalcy in the conflict-ridden area. The region has experienced decades of unrest, and the tension between India and Pakistan, both of whom claim Kashmir, remains high.
In a significant development, some separatists—who have long advocated for Kashmir’s independence from India—participated in this election for the first time in years, further highlighting the region’s evolving political dynamics.
While the final results are yet to be announced, the BJP’s performance in Haryana and the potential Congress-NC alliance victory in Jammu and Kashmir will have far-reaching implications for both states and India’s broader political landscape.
