High-Stakes Rajya Sabha Polls in J-K: NC vs BJP Face-Off

The Rajya Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir present a significant political contest between the National Conference (NC) and BJP. NC is expected to secure three out of four seats with strategic alliances, while the BJP eyes an upset. Abstentions and alliances may determine the outcome.

The first Rajya Sabha elections since Jammu and Kashmir's conversion to a Union territory are set for Friday, drawing significant attention. Political analysts predict a likely victory for the ruling National Conference (NC) on three of the four seats if their strategies hold.

Among the key contests is Chowdhury Mohammed Ramzan of the NC against Ali Mohammed Mir from the BJP. The NC has strategically positioned Sajjad Kitchloo for the second seat and fielded G S Oberoi and Imran Nabi Dar for the remaining two. The BJP's tactical nomination of Sat Sharma and strategic abstentions could influence the results.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed confidence in sweeping all four seats, emphasizing every non-BJP vote's importance. Congress' non-attendance at a crucial pre-poll meeting raised questions but was played down by Abdullah, confident of the alliance's solidity. The outcome will shape future political alliances in the territory.

(With inputs from agencies.)