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Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti is gearing up to contest the Lok Sabha elections from the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency. This announcement comes amidst a backdrop of political tensions and strategic alliances within the region. 

Mufti's political moves:

Mufti's decision to contest from Anantnag-Rajouri reflects her continued political ambition and commitment to represent the people of Jammu and Kashmir at the national level. She has previously won from the Anantnag constituency in both the 2004 and 2014 Lok Sabha elections, indicating her strong foothold in the region.
The People's Democratic Party (PDP), led by Mufti, has also revealed its candidate lineup for other constituencies. Waheed Para will contest from Srinagar, while Fayaz Mir will represent the party in Baramulla. Additionally, the PDP has decided to extend support to the Congress on two seats in the Jammu region.
Mufti's decision to field candidates in the elections comes after accusations against the National Conference (NC) of leaving the PDP with limited options. This move signifies a rift within the People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), a coalition formed by regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir.

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Opposition stance:

Ghulam Nabi Azad, former Congress leader and chief of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), stands as Mufti's prominent opponent in the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency. Azad is campaigning for the reinstatement of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood, emphasizing it as a crucial issue for the region.
The Anantnag-Rajouri seat is scheduled for voting in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 7, with vote counting set for June 4. This contest holds significant importance in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, as candidates vie to represent the aspirations of the people amidst shifting alliances and heightened tensions.

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