Peer Muhammad Amir Qureshi:
The upcoming assembly elections in Kashmir, particularly in Ganderbal, are shaping up to be a defining moment in the region’s political landscape. With the valley preparing for its first elections in almost a decade, the stakes are higher than ever. Every political party is pulling out all the stops to woo voters, promising everything from infrastructure development to economic upliftment. However, as with any high-stakes political showdown, these promises are accompanied by controversy, allegations of political maneuvering, and strategic calculations aimed at maintaining or seizing power. The battleground is set, and all eyes are now on Ganderbal.
The Kangan Controversy: Reservation and Allegations of Gerrymandering
The constituency of Kangan has emerged as a focal point of controversy. Reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST) in this election, many believe that this change was not a neutral one, but a deliberate political maneuver. Bashir Ahmad Mir, a political figure in the region, has vocally accused the authorities of gerrymandering. According to him, the reservation is a strategic “gift” to the Larvi family, specifically Mian Altaf, as a reward for his silence during the abrogation of Article 370. Mir’s argument revolves around the idea that Mian Altaf’s son, Mian Mehar Ali, has now been positioned to contest from the reserved seat, effectively ensuring the family’s hold on the constituency without forcing Mian Altaf himself to run, who was seen as a stronger candidate.
This has led to a wider debate about the fairness of the electoral process and whether political dynasties are being unfairly protected through such maneuvers. Critics argue that by reserving the seat, the authorities have ensured that Mian Altaf avoids a direct contest, particularly against stronger challengers like Bashir Ahmad Mir, who nearly defeated him in the 2014 elections.
Bashir Ahmad Mir: The PDP’s Rising Star
Bashir Ahmad Mir has established himself as a force to be reckoned with, particularly in Ganderbal. Known for his grassroots activism and his near-victory over Mian Altaf in the Kangan constituency in 2014, Mir is now emerging as a central figure for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). His candidacy in Ganderbal has sent ripples through the political establishment, particularly because of his growing support among young voters, who resonate with his calls for local leadership and community-driven solutions.
Mir’s stature in Ganderbal has also heightened the tension within the PDP itself. Sheikh Bilal, another long-standing PDP worker, was initially overlooked for a ticket in Ganderbal, leading to internal dissent. However, after former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti intervened, the issue was resolved, and the party has now rallied around Bashir Ahmad Mir as its primary candidate for Ganderbal. His candidacy represents a serious challenge to the National Conference (NC) and its candidate Omar Abdullah.
The Main Contest: A Clash of Titans in Ganderbal
The contest in Ganderbal is being widely seen as one of the fiercest political battles in the upcoming elections. Ganderbal, historically a stronghold of the Abdullah family and the National Conference, will see Omar Abdullah, the scion of the family, pitted against Bashir Ahmad Mir of the PDP. While the NC has traditionally held sway in the region, the political dynamics have shifted over the years, with voters becoming increasingly disillusioned with dynastic politics and demanding local representation that addresses their everyday needs.
Alongside Omar Abdullah and Bashir Ahmad Mir, several other candidates are throwing their hats into the ring. Sheikh Ishfaq Jabbar, who has faced criticism for his association with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Kaiser Sultan of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), and Sahil Farooq, an independent candidate, have all entered the fray. The addition of Sarjan Barkati, known as the “Pied Piper of Kashmir” due to his role in the 2016 protests, has further complicated the race. Barkati’s candidacy, while barred from his home constituency, is seen as a wildcard in the race.
Ganderbal: The Historical Significance of the Abdullah Family
The Abdullah family’s hold over Ganderbal is legendary, beginning with Sheikh Abdullah, the “Lion of Kashmir,” and continuing with Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. For decades, winning Ganderbal was a symbolic measure of the NC’s influence in Kashmir and its connection with the electorate. However, the political dynamics in Ganderbal have shifted dramatically, and the NC’s dominance is no longer guaranteed.
This election represents a critical test for Omar Abdullah. His family’s legacy in the region is still strong, but he now faces stiff competition from Bashir Ahmad Mir and others, including members of his own party who were passed over for the Ganderbal ticket. The NC’s decision to field Omar Abdullah has sparked internal strife, particularly among supporters of Sheikh Ghayas-ud-din and Sayim Mustafa, both of whom were seen as potential candidates. The decision to go with Abdullah, who has lost a parliamentary seat before, has caused unease among the party’s grassroots workers.
Internal Challenges and Criticism of Omar Abdullah
Omar Abdullah’s candidacy has also raised questions about his ability to serve both Ganderbal and Budgam effectively, as he has decided to contest from both constituencies. His decision to file nominations in both places has been viewed with suspicion by some voters, who worry that he might not be fully committed to either constituency. Critics have pointed to his past performance in Ganderbal, questioning his contribution to the region and whether he has sufficiently engaged with local issues.
Omar’s candidacy is also complicated by the presence of other strong candidates, particularly Sheikh Ishfaq Jabbar, whose association with the BJP has drawn criticism, and Kaiser Sultan, a prominent candidate from DPAP. The political scene in Ganderbal is increasingly fragmented, with multiple candidates vying for the same voter base, making the election even more unpredictable.
The Growing Support for Bashir Ahmad Mir
Bashir Ahmad Mir’s candidacy, in contrast, is bolstered by strong local support, particularly from young voters. His slogan “Local is Vocal” has struck a chord with Ganderbalians who feel that their district has been neglected by leaders more focused on larger political ambitions than local concerns. The demand for a representative who is deeply connected to the local community has given Mir an edge, as he positions himself as the leader who can genuinely address the needs of the people.
Mir’s growing popularity is also a reflection of the changing political attitudes in Kashmir, where there is increasing disillusionment with political dynasties and a desire for new faces in leadership positions. The memories of the late Afzal Qazi, a respected leader in Ganderbal, are also playing a role in this election, as many locals are drawing comparisons between Mir’s candidacy and the legacy of Qazi.
The Role of Independent Candidates and Non-Local Leaders
The presence of non-local candidates in Ganderbal has sparked further debate about representation. Many voters have expressed concerns that the election is being used as a platform for outsiders, rather than allowing local leaders to emerge. The controversy surrounding Sarjan Barkati’s candidacy is a case in point. Although Barkati has been barred from contesting in his home constituency, his decision to run in Ganderbal has raised questions about whether he truly represents the interests of the local population.
This sentiment of dissatisfaction with non-local candidates is likely to benefit Bashir Ahmad Mir, who has deep roots in the community and is seen as a representative of local interests. His platform of local governance and youth engagement has resonated with voters who are tired of being represented by political dynasties and career politicians who they feel have neglected the region.
A Defining Election for Ganderbal and Kashmir
The upcoming assembly election in Ganderbal represents a turning point, not just for the district but for the broader political landscape in Kashmir. The contest between Omar Abdullah, Bashir Ahmad Mir, and other candidates reflects the shifting dynamics of Kashmiri politics, where dynastic leaders are facing challenges from grassroots movements and independent voices.
For the first time in years, the Abdullah family’s grip on Ganderbal is under threat, as voters demand more accountability and local leadership. Bashir Ahmad Mir, with his strong local support and focus on youth engagement, represents a serious challenge to the National Conference and could redefine the political future of Ganderbal. As the election approaches, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Ganderbal will remain the stronghold of the Abdullah family or if it will mark the rise of a new political force in Kashmir.
(The writer is a columnist based in Ganderbal.He X’s @peermohdamir )
