The National Conference has announced that former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah will be contesting from the Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency, while influential Shia leader Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi will contest from Srinagar. This comes after Omar Abdullah renounced contesting elections until the state's special status was restored. With the constituency witnessing a change in dynamics after delimitation, the fight is expected to be mostly between NC and PCM chief Sajad Gani Lone. Abdullah is expected to garner support from Shia dominated areas within the constituency.
Omar Abdullah to Contest Baramulla Lok Sabha Seat After Reversing Election Boycott
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of the National Conference (NC) has announced that he will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from the Baramulla constituency. This announcement marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the region, as Abdullah had previously renounced contesting elections until the state's special status under Article 370 was restored.
Background
Article 370 granted special autonomous status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir within the Indian union. In August 2019, the Indian government controversially revoked this status, sparking widespread protests and political uncertainty.
Abdullah's Reversal
Abdullah's decision to participate in the elections comes after the redrawing of electoral constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir. The new delimitation has significantly altered the political dynamics, with the Baramulla constituency now including Shia-dominated areas that are expected to provide strong support to the NC.
Challenges Ahead
Abdullah will face a formidable challenge from Sajad Lone, the chief of the People's Conference (PC), who is also contesting from Baramulla. Lone has a strong support base in the constituency and has been critical of the NC's handling of the Kashmir issue.
FAQs
1. Why did Omar Abdullah initially boycott elections? He boycotted elections in protest against the revocation of Article 370.
2. What is the significance of the redrawing of constituencies? The new delimitation includes Shia-dominated areas that are expected to support the NC.
3. Who is Omar Abdullah's main rival in Baramulla? Sajad Lone, the chief of the People's Conference.
4. What is the current political climate in Jammu and Kashmir? The region remains politically volatile and divided over the issue of Article 370.
5. What are Abdullah's chances of winning? Abdullah is a strong contender but faces a tough battle against Lone and the political complexities of the region.
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