High turnout turns it around for BJP

SRINAGAR: The highs and lows of Kashmir election lie in its turnout. While an exceptionally high turnout pushed the fortunes of the BJP in Jammu, a low turnout helped National Conference (NC) in Srinagar, handing it all eight seats in the district. But for Srinagar, NC would not have emerged as the single largest party.  

More than 11 constituencies in Jammu, where the BJP tasted historic success, recorded over 70% turnout. The surge in voting motivated by the pro-Amarnath land agitation duly reflected in the fortunes of the party, pushing its overall tally from one to 11 at the expense of the Congress.

The 62-day agitation allowed the BJP to whip up the Hindu sentiment, which paid rich dividends.      

In separatist heartland Srinagar, which witnessed the lowest 20% voting all seven phases put together, suited NC. The district has been the party’s traditional stronghold but PDP had dented it in 2002, snatching some key seats. This time round, NC struck back, wiping it out and creating a record of sorts by bagging all eight seats.

“In democracy, people have the right to vote. Some decide not to, that is alright,” PDP president Mehbooba Mufti said.        

The high turnout in Kashmir was largely due to the decision of pro-separatist parties, especially Jamaat-e-Islami, to resort to tactical voting in the region’s north and south. Most Jamaat voters backed PDP for ideological reasons against NC. 

“PDP should thank Jamaat for support in south Kashmir where they have won most seats,” NC patron Farooq Abdullah said.

The Jamaat factor also ensured the victory of the PDP president in Wachi.