Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections Candidates Announced

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) have announced their first lists of candidates for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, marking a significant electoral milestone as it is the first election since the abrogation of Article 370. AAP's list features seven candidates, including Fayaz Ahmed Sofi for Pulwama and Muddasir Hassan for Rajpora, while DPAP has revealed 13 candidates, such as former minister Abdul Majeed Wani for Doda East and former advocate general Mohammad Aslam Goni for Bhaderwah. The elections are scheduled for September 18, 25, and October 1, with results expected on October 4. Additionally, the Congress has formed a pre-poll alliance with the National Conference, aiming to contest all 90 assembly seats. Historically, no party has secured a majority in J&K since 1996, leading to coalition governments or central rule, and the upcoming results could determine the political landscape for years to come. This election will also introduce new players like the Awami Ittehad Party's Sheikh Abdul Rashid, who is currently incarcerated.