The Election Commission has unveiled the schedules for assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana, marking significant political milestones for both regions. Jammu and Kashmir, which has not held assembly elections since the revocation of its special status in August 2019, will conduct its polls in three phases starting from September 18. This will be the first time residents of the region vote under the new administrative setup since the special status was revoked and its statehood withdrawn.
The Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections are particularly significant as they are being held under the new political landscape established after the revocation of Article 370. The last elections in the region were held in November-December 2014, with a coalition government led by the BJP and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The dissolution of the state assembly in November 2018 and subsequent governor's rule led to a prolonged period without an elected government.
The Supreme Court had directed the Election Commission to conduct elections by September 30, 2024, in response to petitions challenging the revocation of Article 370. In the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP and National Conference each secured two seats, while an Independent candidate, Abdul Rashid Sheikh, won one seat. The PDP, led by Mehbooba Mufti, aims for a comeback despite its underwhelming performance in the Lok Sabha elections. The Congress plans to field candidates across all 90 seats, focusing particularly on Jammu, where it has stronger organizational support. The BJP is gearing up to contest aggressively, aiming to capitalize on its recent political gains.
In Haryana, the assembly elections are scheduled for October 1, in a single phase. The current BJP government, which has been in power since 2019, is facing a competitive battle as the term of the Haryana Assembly ends in November. The BJP, which had previously formed a coalition government with the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), is now preparing to contest independently following the end of the alliance. The Congress, which had won 31 seats in the previous assembly elections, is expected to be a major contender, alongside the JJP, INLD, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The BJP's Chief Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar, resigned earlier this year, leading to Naib Saini taking charge.
The AAP, energized by recent developments, including the release of Manish Sisodia, is gearing up to make significant inroads. The party’s increased enthusiasm reflects its growing ambitions in Haryana.
The Election Commission has also noted delays in Maharashtra's assembly elections, attributing them to logistical challenges, ongoing monsoon, and significant cultural and religious events. The monsoon season has impacted voter list updates, and the state is observing important festivals, which necessitate postponement. Consequently, the Maharashtra elections, which were initially planned alongside those in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir, will now be scheduled separately.
Overall, the upcoming elections in Jammu Kashmir, and Haryana promise to be high-stakes, reflecting broader political shifts and regional dynamics.
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