Omar Abdullah Budgam Bypolls
The Badgam assembly bypoll serves as a crucial test for the National Conference government, with its outcome regarded as a referendum on Omar Abdullah's leadership.
The contest in this important constituency, once represented by the Chief Minister, has become challenging for the party. Rebel parliamentarian Aga Ruhullah has openly declined to support the National Conference candidate, former minister Syed Mehmood.
Ruhullah's criticisms of Omar Abdullah focus on key issues like the restoration of Article 370, statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, and reservation policies. By distancing himself from active campaigning, Ruhullah has sparked concerns that some of his Mustafai supporters might shift allegiance to the People's Democratic Party (PDP).
Ruhullah has even urged Omar Abdullah to resign, accusing him of failing to fulfill the National Conference's election promises.
In the race, 23 candidates are competing, with the main contest between Syed Mehmood and PDP's Aga Muntazir Mehmood. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has also entered a candidate from the influential Aga clan.
“Ruhullah’s absence has left a vacuum,” said a political observer. “If his followers shift loyalties, it could reshape the final numbers.”
Author's summary: The Badgam bypoll is a critical gauge of Omar Abdullah’s government, complicated by internal dissent and intense competition among multiple candidates.