ECI to announce J&K bypolls alongside Bihar elections

By-elections for Budgam and Nagrota assembly constituencies on cards, ECI deploys observers

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 28 (STC): By-elections for the Budgam and Nagrota assembly constituencies in Jammu & Kashmir are on cards as the Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to announce by-elections for these constituencies.
According to official reports, the ECI has announced the deployment of observers for Budgam and Nagrota—two seats currently lying vacant in the J&K Assembly. The move signals that the announcement of elections for these constituencies is imminent.
“The Election Commission of India has decided to deploy 470 officers (320 IAS, 60 IPS, and 90 from IRS/IRAS/ICAS, etc.) serving in various states as Central Observers (General, Police, and Expenditure) for the forthcoming general election to the legislative assembly of Bihar and bye-elections in Jammu & Kashmir (AC–Budgam & Nagrota), Rajasthan (AC–Anta), Jharkhand (AC–Ghatsila), Telangana (AC–Jubilee Hills), Punjab (AC–Tarn Taran), Mizoram (AC–Dampa), and Odisha (AC–Nuapada),” the report quoting the poll body reads.
As far as political dynamics are concerned, the BJP and National Conference (NC) hold an upper hand in Budgam and Nagrota seats, respectively.
Reportedly, Nagrota is likely to witness a direct contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and National Conference-led alliance (NC). As far as Budgam constituency is concerned, a triangular battle involving NC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Peoples Alliance for Change-a coalition comprising the Peoples Conference, Peoples Democratic Front, and Justice and Development Front (JDF) is expected.
(Straight Talk Communications)