35 Politicians Switch Sides In J&K Since Art 370 Abrogation

Srinagar: The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir are anticipated to be both significant and intriguing for several reasons. Primarily, following the abrogation of Article 370, it will serve as a litmus test in the altered political landscape for the first time.

Over the past five years, there has been a considerable transformation in the political dynamics of the re- gion. During the electioneer- ing process, one can expect to witness the emergence of contenders affiliated with non-traditional political entities challenging the dominance of established familybased parties. Notably, three newly registered parties have surfaced in Jammu and Kashmir, poised to challenge their parent parties. Numerous leaders, former ministers, and ex-MLAs are anticipated to actively en- gage in politics within this evolved political milieu. A notable trend has been the significant number of leaders, former ministers, and MLAs switching allegiances in Jammu and Kashmir.

Following the revocation of Article 370, Kashmir experienced initial political upheaval. Several senior leaders distanced themselves from the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Notably, former minister Syed Altaf Bukhari, previously aligned with PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, parted ways with the PDP to establish a new entity, Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party. In the inaugural District Development Council (DDC) elections, the party demonstrated commendable performance in various regions, challenging the dominance of its parent party, the PDP. Subsequently, influential