J&K Assembly polls: Phase -3: Jammu East constituency awaits polls in an unusually calm atmosphere

Dissatisfaction with BJP grows, but voters see no clear alternative

JAMMU: As Jammu prepares for the third phase of the Assembly elections on October 1st, a notable shift in the political atmosphere is evident.
Traditionally considered the epicenter of Jammu's political activity, the old city, known for its boisterous and dynamic election campaigning, is unusually quiet.
In previous elections, the air would be filled with the sound of campaigners and the bustling activity of political rallies. However, with less than ten days remaining until voting, the typical energy is conspicuously absent, leaving residents to quietly contemplate their choices.
The mood among the electorate of the Jammu East Assembly constituency reflects a growing frustration with political leadership. Conversations with locals in Ward No. 8, Rehari, reveal a simmering dissatisfaction with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the ruling party.
Yet, despite their grievances, voters find themselves without a viable alternative. Many express discontent over local governance issues, particularly the rising cost of electricity and the hardships faced by citizens under the guise of development initiatives like smart meters and smart city projects.
Ankush Sharma, a local, highlighted the discrepancy between the development showcased on television and the actual conditions on the ground. He voiced a sentiment shared by many, stating that his vote would be determined by the candidate’s merit rather than party affiliation.
This pragmatic approach to voting is not uncommon among the electorate. While some voters prioritize local concerns such as electricity bills and economic issues, others focus on larger national issues like terrorism and separatism.
The BJP’s push for nationalism and development is countered by Congress's focus on local issues such as water, electricity, and employment generation. The Congress-National Conference (NC) alliance seeks to capitalize on the public’s disillusionment with rising electricity bills, unreliable power supply, and the looming threat of property taxes and water meters.
In the Jammu East Assembly constituency, the contest is shaping up to be a direct battle between BJP’s Yudhveer Sethi and the Congress-NC alliance’s Yogesh Sahni.
Sethi, a long-time local figure, enjoys strong grassroots support, having worked among the people for decades. His opponent, Sahni, while previously successful in the constituency, has been criticized for his absence from local politics in recent years, leading some to question his commitment to the area.
This contrast between a well-established local candidate and a less visible outsider has become a key talking point in the BJP's campaign.
While the BJP is making nationalism a cornerstone of its agenda, it is also emphasizing development. On the other hand, Congress, while indirectly supporting NC’s demand for the restoration of Article 370, is more focused on addressing the immediate concerns of the electorate.
Their campaign in the Jammu East constituency revolves around day-to-day issues like employment, water, and electricity, knowing that these directly affect voters’ lives.
Interestingly, despite the lack of visible enthusiasm, political rivalry is still apparent in subtle ways. In a recent roadshow led by BJP’s national president J.P. Nadda, flags of both the BJP and Congress were hoisted along the same route, suggesting a competitive atmosphere beneath the surface.
However, the widespread absence of traditional campaign noise leaves it unclear which party has the upper hand.
Voters, though quiet, have made up their minds, but they are keeping their cards close to their chest. The muted atmosphere may give the impression of disinterest, but the electorate is carefully weighing its options, choosing between local political loyalty and dissatisfaction with broader governance.
Whether the election results will reflect the quiet resentment felt on the ground or maintain the status quo remains to be seen as the old city moves towards Election Day.

Updated On 9/27/2024 3:27:55 AM