Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a significant revival of democratic processes as candidates engage in door-to-door campaigning in the Kashmir Valley for the upcoming assembly elections. This marks the first time in 37 years that such personal outreach has returned to the region.

The return of door-to-door canvassing is a notable shift from the turbulent days following the 1987 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. Those elections, conducted under the then-Farooq Abdullah-led National Conference government, were marred by allegations of severe rigging, creating a deep rift among the populace and contributing to the rise of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the exodus of the Kashmiri Hindu community. Following those controversial elections, the practice of direct campaigning was abandoned due to the risks posed by terrorism. However, the last decade has seen a resurgence of democratic activities in the region, particularly with the Modi government’s counter-terrorism policies and the abrogation of Article 370, which restructured governance and contributed to a democratic revival.

With assembly elections scheduled between September 18 and October 1, the Kashmir Valley is experiencing calmer election scenes and intensified campaigning. Candidates are now engaging directly with voters, shaking hands, and even enjoying tea with supporters in areas once considered high-risk. The return to door-to-door campaigning has been met with optimism from local politicians and residents. Khurshid Alam, a former MLC and PDP candidate from the Eidgah seat in Srinagar, noted the transformation, saying, “We used to return home before dusk due to safety concerns. Now, campaigning extends till one in the morning.”

Pulwama resident Gulzar Ahmad highlighted the increased openness among voters, stating, “People who were once afraid to welcome politicians into their homes now do so with enthusiasm. This level of engagement is unprecedented in the past forty years.” Ahmad contrasted the current scenario with the past, emphasizing the reduced fear of boycotts and violence. He observed that voters are now more proactive in addressing their issues directly with politicians.

Analysts predict a potential increase in voter turnout, which has historically been low in the region. The recent Lok Sabha elections saw a significant rise in voter turnout, reaching 38.5 percent in Srinagar, the highest in four decades. This assembly election, the first since the abrogation of J&K’s special status in August 2019, is expected to be a multi-cornered contest, with the BJP aiming to make significant inroads and form a government in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

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