(A slew of unexpected factors could change the dynamics of Kashmiri politics before the assembly elections are finally held. The author explores the current developments in the first of a two-part series.)
The Kashmiri media is brimming with reports of one-time Hurriyat leader Bilal Lone joining mainstream politics. Some normally well-informed observers also speculate the possible release of the maverick former legislator and 'engineer' Abdul Rashid from jail before the assembly elections are held.
One hears that a formerly well-known and powerful minister too, may launch a new party. And who knows, there could be others in the shadows—in Budgam, for example. For, it would appear that having a large number of players in the electoral field could be part of the strategy of some ruling party policymakers.
Some observers speculate the possible release of Abdul Rashid from jail before assembly elections
The launch of a new party by Ghulam Nabi Azad, one-time Congress leader and former chief minister of the state has caused speculation about his impact on the elections.
Factors such as Rashid's release makes it tough to predict what might happen when elections are held in the union territory. Some say he would contest.
One striking trend that is quietly taking shape is that several Muslim politicians at the grassroots have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP)
Some of the optimistic votaries of the BJP seem to think they could already win a few assembly seats from the Valley whenever elections are held.