Anantnag The recently-carved Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat, the only constituency in the Union Territory spread between both Kashmir and Jammu regions, is a battle field characterised by a unique blend of political dynamics following the delimitation exercise. Leveled against each other are two prominent numbers Mehbooba Mufti of the People's Democratic Party(PDP) and Mian Altaf, an influential ethnical leader representing the National Conference(NC).
The constituency goes to polls on May 7 in the third. The decision by the Delimitation Commission to redraw the Anantnag constituency's map by adding Assembly parts from Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu region has added a new dimension to the electoral landscape. This move, viewed by numerous as an attempt by the BJP to access Kashmir, underscores the strategic significance of the constituency in public politics.
It was being extensively batted whether the Anantnag-Rajouri seat would give the BJP its important-asked gateway to the Valley. Still, the BJP sprang a surprise by concluding out of the race this time. Former chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, who formed his own party in 2022 after leaving the Congress, was also anticipated to dispute from the seat. Still, he decided out of the race at the last moment.
This leaves Mehbooba and Altaf in a direct contest Mehbooba, a seasoned politician and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, brings with her a strong base of support, particularly in Anantnag and Kulgam districts of south Kashmir. Her leadership is characterised by a focus on indigenous autonomy and engagement with separatist sentiments, making her a polarising figure in the region.
On the other hand, Altaf, known for his influence among ethnical communities, presents a redoubtable challenge to Mufi's dominance. His cooperation with the NC adds a sub caste of institutional support and broader political network to his campaign. As the NC is being supported by the Congress as part of the LN DIA bloc, Altaf's chances of victory have increased.
Altaf hails from Wangath area of Ganderbal in central Kashmir and his family has political and spiritual influence on ethnical communities across J&K His family members have won nine Assembly polls since 1967 which included his five victories since 1987. He also has close family relations with some influential ethnical famibes in Rajoun, which falls in the same constituency.
The constituency itself is a melting pot of different demographics, encompassing both civic and pastoral areas, along with a significant ethnical population in border districts of Rajpuri and Pecach. The constituency comprises 18 Assembly segments, 11 in Kashmir and 7 in Rajoses Poonch with an electorate of 1925 450 votes. The mixing of terrains has added to the arma sens auch be, The electoral history of the constituency reveals a pattern of shifting voter preferences. While the Congress and the NC have enjoyed periods of ascendance , recent years have seen a surge in support for the PDP and the NC.