The BJP's original candidate list, which included 44 names from across Jammu and Kashmir, was abruptly retracted. This unexpected move set the stage for a fresh announcement, revealing a significantly pared-down lineup. The revised list includes candidates for the first phase of polling, scheduled for September 18, leaving nine seats in south Kashmir still to be finalized.
Initial Candidate List Withdrawn
The BJP's original candidate list, which included 44 names from across Jammu and Kashmir, was abruptly retracted. This unexpected move set the stage for a fresh announcement, revealing a significantly pared-down lineup. The revised list includes candidates for the first phase of polling, scheduled for September 18, leaving nine seats in south Kashmir still to be finalized.
New List Unveiled
The BJP has now officially announced its candidates for the assembly elections, focusing on 15 constituencies for the first phase. Notable names on the list include:
- Sofi Mohammad Yousuf: A senior Valley leader, previously expected to contest from Pahalgam, will now run from Bijbehara.
- Sunil Sharma: A former minister, who has been shifted from Kishtwar to Padder.
- Shakti Raj Parihar: BJP’s vice-president, running for the Doda constituency.
The party has also named candidates for Anantnag East, Pampore, Rajpora, Shopian, Anantnag, and Anantnag West. However, seats in Pulwama, Tral, Kulgam, D H Pora, Devsar, Kokernag, Dooru, Pahalgam, and Zainpora remain unfilled in this phase.
Strategic Moves in Key Constituencies
The BJP's tactical adjustments include significant shifts in constituency choices:
- Bijbehara: Sofi Mohammad Yousuf will contest here instead of his traditional Pahalgam seat.
- Padder: Former minister Sunil Sharma is the candidate, replacing his former Kishtwar seat.
- Doda: The party’s vice-president, Shakti Raj Parihar, is the chosen candidate.
The last date for filing nomination papers for this phase is Tuesday, adding urgency to the BJP's revised candidate strategy.
Public and Political Reactions
The sudden withdrawal and reissue of the candidate list have sparked considerable discussion and speculation. Analysts and political observers are keenly watching how these changes might affect the BJP’s performance in the upcoming elections. The party’s commitment to contest all seats in Jammu and Kashmir remains intact, but the new list’s strategic choices highlight its evolving electoral strategy.
Full Candidate List
For the complete list of BJP candidates announced for the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, please refer to the official party announcements and updates.
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