Aasif Suhaf

Srinagar: As the countdown to the October 8 results for the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections begins, the political atmosphere is charged with controversy. Reports have emerged suggesting that the BJP-led central government is taking steps to nominate five members to the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly before a new government is formed. This strategic maneuver is perceived as an attempt to bolster the majority mark for government formation from the required 46 seats to 48, a favorable move for the BJP.

The current J&K assembly comprises 95 seats, excluding the 24 reserved seats for PoK areas, of which polling has been conducted in 90. The remaining five seats are designated for nomination by the government. If the new government is formed solely based on the electoral results, the threshold for a majority remains at 46. However, if the BJP successfully nominates these additional five members through the Lieutenant Governor, it could significantly alter the dynamics of power in the region.

Also Read: Congress Strongly Opposes Nominated Members In J&K Assembly; Vows To Fight It Tooth And Nail

The Congress party has vocally opposed this move, labeling it “undemocratic” and a blatant disregard for the electorate’s mandate. In a statement, the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) emphasized that the authority to nominate these members should reside with the newly elected government. They warned that bypassing this crucial step would undermine democratic principles and betray the will of the voters.

“The people have cast their votes to elect their representatives,” Congress leaders asserted, “and the party that secures a majority deserves the opportunity to govern.” While expressing support for reserving seats for refugees from Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK), Kashmiri Pandits, and other minorities, they cautioned against using nomination powers to distort the electoral process.

As tensions rise ahead of the election results, all eyes remain on how this situation will unfold and its potential impact on governance in Jammu and Kashmir.

Also Read: Jammu & Kashmir Exit Poll: National Conference Poised For Majority