Kaleemullah Lone, a Jamaat-e-Islami member, is campaigning in Indian-administered Kashmir for the first regional elections in 10 years, focusing on issues like health infrastructure and unemployment. This comes as the Jamaat, previously boycotting elections, now backs 10 candidates amidst tensions with mainstream parties. Analysts view this shift as a tragic circle in the region’s history, with the party facing a divide over election participation.
The party’s decision, seen as an attempt at rehabilitation, is controversial among its cadre, some viewing it as opportunistic. Jamaat’s candidates are campaigning on similar promises to Lone, aiming to establish trust in Indian democracy and counteract the shrinking political space post-2019 crackdown.
Meanwhile, competing in the elections is also the Awami Ittehad Party, led by Abdul Rashid, whose victory in the Lok Sabha election sparked further participation of anti-India candidates, prompting tensions with mainstream parties. The elections draw closer amidst speculations and concerns about New Delhi’s involvement and potential impacts on established vote banks.
For many Kashmiris like Mohammad and Asif, the decision to participate or not in the elections is complex and emotionally charged. While some view it as a way to reclaim political space and rights, others struggle with conflicting loyalties and fears of repercussions. The Jamaat’s participation may benefit New Delhi and the BJP, but activists like Mohammad express discomfort with the decision, highlighting the deep divisions and uncertainties surrounding the upcoming elections in the region.
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