Suhail Khan
BARAMULLA, June 05: The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Kashmir, particularly in the Baramulla Parliamentary Constituency, have marked a historic moment in the region’s political landscape. With a record-breaking voter turnout and significant shifts in voter preferences, the elections reflect a profound transformation in the political dynamics of Jammu and Kashmir.
Record Voter Turnout: A Milestone Achievement
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir recorded its highest voter turnout in 35 years, a testament to the region’s evolving democratic engagement. The overall voter turnout rose dramatically, with the Kashmir Valley alone witnessing a remarkable 30-point increase from 19.16% in 2019 to 50.86% in 2024. Specific constituencies reported impressive figures: Srinagar (38.49%), Baramulla (59.1%), and Anantnag-Rajouri (54.84%). Even higher turnouts were recorded in Udhampur (68.27%) and Jammu (72.22%), showcasing widespread enthusiasm among the electorate.
The Emergence of Er Rashid
One of the most notable developments in this election was the exceptional performance of jailed leader Engineer Rashid. Despite his incarceration, Rashid garnered substantial support across all 18 segments of the Baramulla constituency. His vote tally is impressive:
Karnah: 20,061 votes
Trehgam: 19,619 votes
Kupwara: 22,849 votes
Lolab: 28,120 votes
Handwara: 19,336 votes
Langate: 40,226 votes
Sopore: 25,099 votes
Rafiabad: 41,041 votes
Uri: 28,644 votes
Baramulla: 34,357 votes
Gulmarg: 25,720 votes
Wagoora Kreeri: 20,685 votes
Pattan: 17,112 votes
Postal and migrant votes: 2,973
Rashid’s strong performance indicates a significant shift in voter sentiment, highlighting a desire for alternative leadership and new political narratives.
Omar Abdullah’s Continued Influence
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, representing the National Conference, secured a total of 268,339 votes. His performance, although robust, reflects the challenges faced by established political figures in a changing political environment. Abdullah’s votes by segment include:
Karnah: 4,810 votes
Trehgam: 9,571 votes
Kupwara: 12,303 votes
Lolab: 10,434 votes
Handwara: 14,655 votes
Langate: 9,925 votes
Sopore: 16,461 votes
Rafiabad: 12,029 votes
Uri: 20,429 votes
Baramulla: 19,593 votes
Gulmarg: 13,097 votes
Wagoora Kreeri: 8,166 votes
Pattan: 21,533 votes
Sonawari: 22,430 votes
Bandipora: 12,220 votes
Gurez: 3,977 votes
Budgam: 30,259 votes
Beerwah: 19,520 votes
Postal and migrant votes: 6,704 and 2,683 respectively
Despite his established voter base, the emergence of Er Rashid as a strong competitor signifies potential shifts in voter loyalty and political allegiances.
Struggles of People’s Conference and PDP
The People’s Conference and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) struggled to make a significant impact in these elections. The People’s Conference, despite high expectations, received limited support:
Karnah: 6,726 votes
Trehgam: 13,250 votes
Kupwara: 8,343 votes
Lolab: 6,971 votes
Handwara: 26,275 votes
Langate: 19,676 votes
Sopore: 23,373 votes
Rafiabad: 4,823 votes
Uri: 8,494 votes
Baramulla: 5,509 votes
Gulmarg: 5,137 votes
Wagoora Kreeri: 2,840 votes
Pattan: 17,124 votes
Sonawari: 16,430 votes
Bandipora: 6,530 votes
Gurez: 2,075 votes
Budgam: 6,936 votes
Beerwah: 7,052 votes
Postal and migrant votes: 6,704
Similarly, the PDP’s performance was lackluster:
Karnah: 865 votes
Trehgam: 2,411 votes
Kupwara: 8,226 votes
Lolab: 1,858 votes
Handwara: 848 votes
Langate: 986 votes
Sopore: 816 votes
Rafiabad: 705 votes
Uri: 1,072 votes
Baramulla: 1,404 votes
Gulmarg: 1,733 votes
Wagoora Kreeri: 906 votes
Pattan: 630 votes
Sonawari: 1,944 votes
Bandipora: 1,200 votes
Gurez: 64 votes
Budgam: 665 votes
Beerwah: 810 votes
Postal and migrant votes: 345
These figures highlight the parties’ struggles to resonate with voters amidst changing political currents.
Impact of Article 370 Abrogation
The abrogation of Article 370 has undeniably reshaped the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The historic voter turnout and active participation of diverse demographic groups, including families of former militants, underscore a collective aspiration for change and development. This newfound engagement reflects a significant shift towards democratic processes and the exercise of electoral rights.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Baramulla serve as a bellwether for the region’s political future. The record voter turnout and the unexpected rise of Er Rashid signal a dynamic and evolving political environment. Established parties like the National Conference will need to adapt to these changes to maintain relevance, while the struggles of the People’s Conference and PDP highlight the challenges faced by traditional political entities. As Jammu and Kashmir moves forward, the emphasis on democratic participation and the desire for change will continue to shape its political narrative.
