Sat Oct 05 15:46:44 UTC 2024: ## Exit Polls Predict Close Contests in Jammu & Kashmir and Haryana Assembly Elections

**New Delhi:** Exit polls for the recent Assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir and Haryana are being released, predicting close contests and potential upsets. In Haryana, the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is facing a tough challenge as it seeks a third consecutive term in power. Meanwhile, in Jammu & Kashmir, the Congress and National Conference are in an alliance, hoping to reclaim the reins of government.

**Jammu & Kashmir:** The exit polls suggest a strong performance by the BJP in the Jammu Division, where it is projected to secure 27-31 seats, with a vote share exceeding 41%. However, in the Kashmir Valley, the BJP is predicted to win only 0-1 seats.

The National Conference-Congress alliance is predicted to win 11-15 seats in the Jammu Division and a commanding 29-33 seats in the Kashmir Valley. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is projected to win 2 seats in the Jammu Division and 6-10 in the Valley.

**Haryana:** The BJP in Haryana appears to be facing a major setback, with exit polls predicting a reduced number of seats (20-28) compared to its previous victories. The Congress, on the other hand, is projected to make a strong comeback, potentially winning 50-58 seats. The Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) is predicted to win 0-2 seats.

In terms of vote share, the Congress could see a significant increase to 44%, while the BJP’s share is projected to be 37%. The JJP’s vote share is estimated at 4%.

**Key takeaways:**

* The BJP is likely to remain a dominant force in the Jammu Division of Jammu & Kashmir, but may struggle in the Kashmir Valley.
* The National Conference-Congress alliance appears to be strong in the Kashmir Valley.
* In Haryana, the BJP’s third consecutive victory seems uncertain, with the Congress poised to make a comeback.

**Historical significance:** The Jammu & Kashmir elections hold significant historical importance, being the first Assembly polls held after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The polls also saw the first time that several communities, including West Pakistani refugees, Valmiki, and Gorkha communities, were granted voting rights.

**Note:** It’s important to remember that exit polls are not conclusive and the final results will be announced by the Election Commission of India.

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