National Conference Wins Legislative Elections in Kashmir

In a significant electoral setback for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) and its ally, the Congress party, won a majority in the first local elections held since the revocation of the region's semi-autonomy in 2019. The NC secured 42 out of 90 seats, while the Congress won six, collectively forming a government with 48 seats. This election, seen as a referendum against Modi's government, highlights widespread discontent over the loss of autonomy and increased central control. Omar Abdullah, the NC leader, expressed commitment to restoring political rights and freedom in the region, which has been under direct federal rule for over five years. The BJP managed to capture only 29 seats, mainly in Hindu-majority areas of Jammu, marking a stark contrast to the NC's stronghold in the Kashmir Valley. This election, the first in a decade, reflects the ongoing tensions and aspirations for greater autonomy within the disputed territory of Kashmir.