From Article 370 to smart meters: The shifting political landscape of 2025 in J&K

By Raqif Makhdoomi*

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed many elections in its history, but the 2024 polls marked a turning point. Unlike earlier contests, these elections were not fought merely on promises of development. Parties across the spectrum pledged to restore Article 370, regain statehood, secure the release of political prisoners, and halt the termination of government employees. Voter participation was overwhelming, making the 2024 elections historic not only for Jammu and Kashmir but for the entire country.

These were the first elections held in the Union Territory after the constitutional changes of 2019. The rallies were unprecedented in scale and energy, drawing even those who had never voted before. Interestingly, many of these new voters supported the National Conference (NC)—a party long associated with voter disillusionment. Their support was not rooted in affection for NC but in its manifesto, which successfully framed rival parties as aligned with the BJP and held the BJP responsible for the abrogation of Article 370.

While NC’s narrative resonated, it overlooked deeper historical causes. The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 cannot be viewed in isolation. The Sheikh–Indira Accord of 1975, also known as the Kashmir Accord, laid the groundwork decades earlier. Congress and NC played roles in diluting autonomy, even if BJP ultimately executed the formal abrogation. Successive governments in Delhi—whether Congress or BJP—pursued similar policies, though Congress managed to present its actions more subtly. Farooq Abdullah himself once admitted that had the Centre consulted NC, the party might have supported the move. His own political compromises, including the Farooq–Rajiv Accord, underscore the continuity of such decisions across parties.

The 2024 elections also brought the reservation policy to the forefront. Yet, despite initial promises, the government has failed to deliver concrete measures, particularly for students. A subcommittee was formed after Ruhullah Mehdi led a protest outside the Chief Minister’s residence, but the issue has since been sidelined. The protest deepened tensions between Mehdi and Omar Abdullah, exposing internal rifts within NC. Mehdi’s absence during the Budgam bypolls, while stationed in Germany, contributed to NC losing a traditional stronghold.

Upon his return, Mehdi delivered a powerful speech rebutting allegations against him and reminding NC legislators of their past reliance on his campaigning. His words resonated with the public, but they also highlighted the party’s dependence on his popularity. In many constituencies, voters supported NC not for the party itself but because of Mehdi’s assurances.

The year 2025 has therefore been marked by political turbulence and growing disillusionment. Promises remain unfulfilled, and citizens increasingly perceive betrayal. The controversy over smart meters exemplifies this shift: Omar Abdullah, once opposed to their installation, now supports them, angering many.

Yet, amid frustration, public engagement with the assembly has grown. For the first time in years, people in Kashmir are closely following legislative proceedings, reflecting heightened political awareness.

As 2026 approaches, the government faces a critical test. Unless it addresses grievances and restores trust, the National Conference may find itself in opposition. The events of 2025 suggest that “coming events cast their shadow.”

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*Law student and a human rights activist

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