Central Kashmir’s Budgam constituency is heading for a high-stakes political showdown as the NC, BJP, PDP, and independents prepare for a closely watched by-election. With shifting loyalties, family legacies, and party unity on the line, the November 11 poll is set to shape the region’s political future.
Central Kashmir is gearing up for an intense political contest as heavyweight candidates from the National Conference (NC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and several independents filed their nomination papers for the Budgam Assembly by-election on Monday.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The November 11 by-poll has become a litmus test for the region’s traditional loyalties and emerging local aspirations. With the ruling NC aiming to retain its dominance, the BJP seeking to expand its footprint, and the PDP attempting a comeback, Budgam is set to witness one of the most closely fought battles in recent memory. The counting of votes will take place on November 14.
According to the Election Commission’s schedule, the notification for the Budgam by-poll was issued on October 13, with the last date for filing nominations on October 20. Scrutiny will be held on October 22, and candidates can withdraw their names until October 24.
Major Contenders and Party Strategies
The National Conference has fielded Aga Syed Mehmood Al-Mousavi, a veteran Shia leader known for his deep roots in the Budgam constituency and close ties with the influential Aga Syed family. The BJP has nominated Aga Syed Mohsin Mosvi, while the PDP has chosen Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, who had contested against Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the previous election.
A total of 19 candidates have submitted their nomination papers, including several independents such as Nazir Ahmad Khan, Deeba Khan, Parvez Ahmad Mir, Owais Ashraf Shah, and others. Their entry reflects growing public interest and the evolving nature of political participation in Budgam.
The filing of nominations turned into a public show of strength for all major parties. NC candidate Aga Mehmood arrived at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office accompanied by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and senior NC leaders, symbolising the party’s united front. The BJP’s Syed Mohsin was joined by Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, while the PDP’s Aga Muntazir Mehdi appeared with senior leaders Ghulam Nabi Lone (Hanjura) and MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para.
Aga Family and NC’s Internal Equations
Aga Mehmood’s nomination has brought the spotlight back on the Aga family’s long-standing influence in Budgam politics. Speaking to reporters, he credited the NC for shaping Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah’s political journey.
“It’s the NC that made him what he is today. His role in the party is important, and I believe he will definitely come forward in the campaign,” Mehmood said, calling Ruhullah “like my own son.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah echoed similar sentiments, saying the party leadership had unanimously approved Mehmood’s candidature after detailed discussions. He declined to comment further on Ruhullah’s possible involvement, stating, “Aga Mehmood Sahab has already said that Aga Ruhullah is like his son. He expects his support for the upcoming by-election. What else can I say?”
However, Ruhullah distanced himself from the remarks, stating on X that his loyalty lies “with conscience and principles.” He urged his family elders “not to belittle my fight or misrepresent my stance.” His statement has added an emotional layer to the by-poll, underscoring internal strains within the NC and the shifting political landscape of the Aga family.
PDP Seeks Revival Amid Political Fatigue
PDP candidate Aga Muntazir Mehdi launched a sharp attack on both the NC and BJP, accusing them of betraying public trust.
“Both NC and BJP have miserably failed to fulfill the aspirations of the people,” Mehdi said. “The NC was given a huge mandate last year, but it has done nothing to address unemployment, power shortages, or developmental stagnation. People are losing faith in traditional politics because promises are made only to be forgotten after elections.”
Mehdi emphasised that the PDP’s campaign will focus on rebuilding trust, improving governance, and addressing Budgam’s local challenges. “Our priority is to resolve Budgam’s core problems. People have waited too long for basic governance. We aim to solve real issues, not play politics, and ensure every resident’s voice is heard,” he said.
A Test for NC’s Strength and Budgam’s Legacy
The by-election will serve as a critical test of the NC’s organisational strength and internal unity after returning to power. Budgam has been a traditional NC bastion since 1996 and carries deep historical and emotional value for the party.
The by-poll was necessitated after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah vacated the Budgam seat to retain Ganderbal, his family’s home constituency. In the 2024 election, Omar had won Budgam by a margin of 18,485 votes against PDP’s Aga Muntazir Mehdi, despite a lower voter turnout of 52 percent.
Political analysts say that while the NC still enjoys strong grassroots support, growing discontent over unfulfilled promises and internal divisions could impact its vote share.
Security and Poll Arrangements
District authorities have set up 173 polling stations and initiated voter awareness drives to encourage participation, particularly among first-time voters. Security agencies have described Budgam as “sensitive but manageable,” with extensive area mapping, deployment planning, and confidence-building patrols already underway.
With a voter base of around 1.26 lakh spread across both urban and rural belts, Budgam holds the key to Central Kashmir’s political pulse. The outcome will not only shape local governance but also indicate the balance of power between traditional heavyweights and emerging local voices.
Conclusion
As Central Kashmir braces for the Budgam by-election, the contest has grown into much more than a fight for one assembly seat. It has become a test of loyalty, legacy, and leadership — a reflection of shifting political identities and the enduring struggle between continuity and change.
The results on November 14 will determine whether Budgam remains a National Conference stronghold or witnesses a reshaping of Central Kashmir’s political landscape.
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