Baramulla to Decide Political Futures of Omar Abdullah, Sajad Lone

In a significant electoral event, over 500 centenarians are set to participate in the voting process for the Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency in Jammu and Kashmir. This marks a pivotal moment as the region prepares for its first major political contest since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. A total of 17.37 lakh voters are eligible to cast their ballots, with expectations of a record-breaking turnout, fuelled by the large crowds at recent election rallies and roadshows.

The electoral battle will determine the political fate of Omar Abdullah, the vice-president of the National Conference and former chief minister, alongside 21 other candidates. Among these, 14 are Independent candidates, including two women, vying for the north Kashmir seat known for its traditionally high voter turnout.

The constituency, which goes to polls on Monday, has witnessed an intense campaign. Omar Abdullah faces stiff competition from Sajad Lone of the Peoples Conference and jailed Awami Ittehad Party leader Abdul Rashid Sheikh, also known as Engineer Rashid. The Peoples Democratic Party has entered the fray with Mir Mohammad Fayaz, and Muneer Khan, brother of jailed separatist leader Nayeem Ahmad Khan, is contesting as an Independent.

Political observers are keenly watching this triangular contest, with endorsements coming from various parties. The Democratic Progressive Azad Party supports Rashid's candidacy, while the Apni Party backs Lone. The extensive campaigning has led to expectations of an unprecedented voter turnout in Baramulla.

Election authorities have approved 1,859 rallies, meetings, and roadshows, highlighting the vibrant democratic engagement in the region. In contrast, 300 applications were rejected. The 2019 polls saw a 34.17% voter turnout, with Kupwara district leading at 51.7%. The constituency spans 18 assembly segments across three districts and includes two segments from Budgam following delimitation commission recommendations.

According to Election Commission officials, there are 527 voters aged over 100 years among the eligible 17.37 lakh voters. The gender distribution includes 8.75 lakh male and 8.62 lakh female voters, with 34 from the third gender and over 17,000 persons with disabilities.

To ensure smooth polling on Monday, more than 8,000 staff members have been deployed across 2,103 polling stations. Special arrangements include women-managed booths, stations manned by specially-abled persons and youngsters, and green polling booths to promote environmental awareness.

For displaced Kashmiris in Jammu and Delhi, comprehensive arrangements have been made to facilitate their participation in the electoral process. Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner Arvind Karwani highlighted that help desks would assist voters with EPIC cards even if their names are missing from voter lists. With 28 polling stations set up for migrants in Jammu and Delhi, a pick-and-drop facility will be available for Kashmiri migrant voters to ensure no eligible voter is left behind.

This election not only tests the political currents in Jammu and Kashmir post-Article 370 but also stands as a testament to the robust democratic spirit prevailing in the region. With high stakes for prominent political figures and an eager electorate ready to cast their votes, Baramulla is on the cusp of potentially setting new records in voter turnout and participation.