Tue Oct 08 10:11:17 UTC 2024: ## Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections: Early Lead for NC-Congress Alliance

**Srinagar, October 8, 2024:** The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, held in three phases in September and October, are seeing the National Conference-Congress alliance take an early lead, according to preliminary results. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is close behind, while independent candidates are also making their mark. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) trails behind in fifth place.

These elections, the first since 2014, mark a significant milestone for the Union Territory, which has been under central rule since 2018. With over 87 lakh voters casting their ballots, the results will determine the future of the region.

**Prominent Candidates in the Fray**

Several prominent figures are contesting the election, including:

* **Omar Abdullah (NC):** The former Chief Minister and NC Vice President is contesting from Ganderbal and Budgam constituencies. A vocal critic of the BJP government, Abdullah advocates for restoration of J&K’s statehood and special status.
* **Iltija Mufti (PDP):** Making her electoral debut, the daughter of PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti is contesting from Bijbehara.
* **Altaf Bukhari (JKAP):** The JKAP chief, who split from the PDP, is contesting from Channapora.
* **Muzaffar Hussain Baig (Independent):** The former Deputy Chief Minister and PDP founding member is contesting from Baramulla.
* **Sajjad Lone (JKPC):** The leader of the JKPC is contesting from Kupwara and Handwara.
* **Waheed Para (PDP):** The PDP youth wing president is contesting from Pulwama.
* **Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami (CPI(M)):** The veteran CPI(M) leader is seeking a fifth term from Kulgam.
* **Ravinder Raina (BJP):** The BJP’s J&K chief is seeking a second term from Nowshera.
* **Sarjan Ahmad Wagay (Independent):** The jailed cleric is contesting from Ganderbal and Beerwah.
* **Tara Chand (Congress):** The former Deputy Chief Minister is contesting from Chhamb.
* **Devendra Singh Rana (BJP):** The brother of Union Minister Jitendra Singh is contesting from Nagrota.

**Election Significance**

The elections come after a period of political turmoil in J&K. The revocation of Article 370, which granted special status to the region, has been a key issue in the campaign. The results will indicate the political landscape and the people’s preferences for the future of J&K.

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