Trehgam's debut election sees triangular face-off

Kupwara, Sep 29: While the delimitation process left many in Kashmir frustrated, the people of Trehgam have emerged as unexpected beneficiaries. For the first time, this once-overlooked place has been granted a separate constituency, setting the stage for an intense political showdown in the upcoming elections.

In what promises to be one of the most fiercely contested battles, the National Conference (NC), Peoples Conference (PC), and Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) have locked horns in Trehgam. On October 1, 78,569 voters; including a nearly equal number of males (39,000) and females (39,569), will decide the political fate of this newly minted constituency.

The stakes are high, with political heavyweight like Mir Saifullah, former cabinet minister and NC leader from Kupwara, making a strategic shift. Known for his dominance in Kupwara, NC has decided to reposition him in Trehgam.

Not far behind, is the Advocate Bashir Ahmad of the PC, who clinched a victory in Kupwara during the 2014 elections, is determined to repeat his success. With strong local ties and a reputation for fighting tooth and nail, he is seen as a formidable opponent.

But it is the surprise entry of Nazir Ahmad Mir, a former bureaucrat turned politician, that has truly electrified the race. Representing the Awami Ittehad Party, Mir is reportedly causing sleepless nights for both NC and PC candidates, adding a wildcard element to the political drama. His grassroots appeal and administrative experience have made him a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for a potential upset.

Political analysts predict a triangular contest in Trehgam, with no clear frontrunner. As the clock ticks down, this newly drawn constituency is quickly becoming the epicenter of political storm in Kupwara.