Landmark Victory for National Conference-Congress Alliance in Ladakh Autonomous Hill Council Elections

Landmark Victory for National Conference-Congress Alliance in Ladakh Autonomous Hill Council Elections

VoM News Desk | October 8, 2023 | 08:49 PM IST | Ladakh (Union Territory) | Follow on Google News

Landmark Victory for National Conference-Congress Alliance in Ladakh Autonomous Hill Council Elections

Landmark Victory for National Conference-Congress Alliance in Ladakh Autonomous Hill Council Elections

In a historic turn of events, the National Conference-Congress alliance has secured a resounding victory in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Council elections in Kargil. This remarkable win marks a significant shift in the political landscape, as it decisively overcomes the BJP in the first local elections held following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the subsequent bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh into two Union Territories.

Alliance Triumphs with a Dominating Performance

As the counting of votes began in the 26-seat hill council, the alliance made its presence felt by securing a staggering 18 seats. The National Conference emerged victorious on 10 seats, while its partner, the Congress, clinched eight. Meanwhile, the BJP managed to secure only two seats, with the counting still in progress for the remaining five seats. The electoral battle witnessed the participation of 85 candidates, adding to the significance of this historic event.

A Referendum on Article 370 Abrogation

For the opposition, these elections were viewed as a referendum on the Central government’s decision to revoke Article 370. Throughout the polling process, voters expressed their concerns about identity issues that arose after the abrogation, as well as the perceived lack of democratic representation under the Union Territory administration. Many voters voiced their desire for reunification with Jammu and Kashmir, expressing disappointment with the Union Territory status, which they felt had failed to address their needs.

“We want our statehood back. We didn’t gain anything from being a Union Territory, and our children are struggling with unemployment,” emphasized a local resident from Kargil. During a campaign rally, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah urged voters to send a “clear message, whether to reject or accept” the NDA government’s decision of August 5, 2019. It’s worth noting that the Ladakh administration’s earlier denial of the “plough” symbol to National Conference candidates had sparked a legal battle, ultimately leading to the postponement of the elections, which were initially scheduled for September 10.

Demand for Full Statehood and Constitutional Protection

Over the past three years, political parties, as well as social and religious groups in Ladakh, have formed a united front against Ladakh’s Union Territory status. They are demanding full statehood and constitutional protection under the sixth schedule. This unique political alliance, encompassing both Buddhist and Muslim groups in the Leh and Kargil districts, presents a formidable challenge to the BJP’s electoral prospects in Ladakh. The results of these elections reflect the strong sentiments and aspirations of the people, marking a significant moment in Ladakh’s political history.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.