THE recently concluded elections in IIOJK have become a focal point for international media, especially considering their significance in the context of the Modi government’s abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The election results sent shockwaves through the political landscape, as the opposition alliance, led by the National Conference (NC) and the Indian National Congress (INC), secured a resounding victory. This has widely been interpreted as a referendum against BJP divisive policies, especially its handling of the Kashmir region. Global media has painted a picture of a government that overstepped its bounds, imposing its will on a population that rejected its hardline, nationalist agenda.
In 2019, the BJP, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, revoked Article 370, stripping IIOJK of its special autonomy. This decision was framed by the Indian government as a move toward integrating the region with the rest of India, bringing development and stability. However, for the people of IIOJK, it was a shocking blow, perceived as a violation of their democratic rights and an assault on their identity. The abrogation was not just about dismantling an article of the Indian Constitution; it represented a majoritarian assertion by the BJP government. For many Kashmiris, the move only reaffirmed their belief that the BJP’s agenda was inherently anti-Muslim, designed to erode the distinctiveness of the Muslim-majority state and impose a Hindu nationalist vision on the region. The vote was viewed as a chance for people of IIOJK to express their discontent and resist what they perceived as an authoritarian encroachment on their rights.
The significant voter turnout in the IIOJK elections, despite the fraught political climate, demonstrated the determination of the Kashmiri people to participate in the democratic process. Far from being apathetic or disillusioned, the people of Kashmir saw the elections as an opportunity to voice their anger and rejection of the BJP’s dominance. This turnout was projected by international media as a clear indication that the Kashmiri electorate was eager for change, and sought to rid themselves of the BJP’s interference in their governance.
In the Kashmir Valley, voters overwhelmingly supported the opposition, emphasizing their desire for leadership that reflects their concerns rather than dismisses them. Omar Abdullah, leader of the National Conference, described the victory as a triumph for democracy, emphasizing that the people of IIOJK had spoken clearly and decisively against the BJP’s policies. He also reiterated the demand for the restoration of IIOJK’s statehood, a key issue that resonates with many in the region.
The victory of the opposition alliance should push the BJP to reconsider its stance on IIOJK and adopt a more inclusive and conciliatory approach, one that respects the unique history, culture and aspirations of Kashmir.
In conclusion, IIOJK election results are not just a political defeat for the BJP but a symbolic one as well. The victory of the opposition alliance stands as a testament to the resilience of democracy in Kashmir and a clear rejection of the BJP’s hardline policies.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Rawalpindi.
