Anantnag -Rajouri LS constituency emerging as key political battleground

Srinagar, Mar 12: The upcoming parliamentary elections in Jammu and Kashmir are set to create a significant political battleground in the Rajouri-Anantnag constituency. This Lok Sabha seat, known for its diverse geographical and socio-cultural landscapes, reflects a shifting dynamic in the political terrain of J&K.

The 2024 Lok Sabha Elections in Jammu and Kashmir are poised to be unique. Previously a state with six Lok Sabha seats, J&K status as a Union Territory, along with Ladakh's separation from its list of constituencies, is expected to overshadow the charm of General Elections.

However, the significance of Jammu and Kashmir in the upcoming mega election remains unchanged. Winning the majority of seats here is a matter of immense pride for any national party, as local parties like the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) usually emerge as major players.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has initiated its campaign by establishing polling offices across Kashmir. The party's general secretary, Ashok Koul, recently inaugurated its Anantnag office, signalling a strong start.

UT BJP president also addressed over half a dozen political rallies in south Kashmir in recent past.

Political observers believe that the Delimitation Commission's decision in May 2022 to merge the Anantnag constituency of Kashmir with Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu, despite the geographical separation, was aimed at creating a pathway into Kashmir for the BJP.

"The decision to reserve Assembly seats for STs will have a significant impact in the Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency," said a political observer. "This constituency now includes six of the seven Assembly segments from Rajouri and Poonch districts, with five of these segments currently reserved."

The BJP's efforts to court the Gujjars and Bakerwals, including through political reservation, had garnered support from senior leaders of these communities in the past.

"If the BJP succeeds in winning Anantnag, it would mark the party's first victory in the Kashmir province," the observer added. "The 2011 census indicated that the Gujjar and Bakerwal population, predominantly Muslim, comprises 43 percent  of Poonch district and 41 percent  of Rajouri. The remaining population in both districts, including Hindus and Muslims, identifies as Pahari."

The Gujjars and Bakerwals, along with Shinas (Shin and Dard), Gaddi, and Sippis, were granted ST status in 1991. This status entitles them to a 10% quota in government jobs and admissions to educational institutions, including professional colleges.

"Until the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, these nomadic communities in Jammu and Kashmir were not extended benefits and protections under various acts," the observer explained. "Following the abrogation, political reservation was provided for Gujjars and Bakerwals in Jammu and Kashmir for the first time. In addition to the five seats in Rajouri and Poonch, one constituency in Reasi and three in the Kashmir province are now reserved for STs."

The BJP government at the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration have assured the two ST groups that their 10 percent quota in government jobs and educational institutions in Jammu and Kashmir will remain unaffected, and that the Paharis will be accommodated with a separate quota.