The political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir’s Budgam assembly segment is heating up as key parties, including the ruling National Conference (NC) and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), officially submitted their nominations on Monday, October 20, 2025, for the upcoming bypolls. The crucial election is scheduled for November 11.
The National Conference has put forward veteran Shia leader Aga Mehmood as its chosen candidate, while the BJP has nominated Syed Mohsin. Adding to the electoral fray, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also announced its candidate, Aga Muntazir Mehdi.
During the nomination process, Aga Mehmood received strong backing from senior National Conference figures, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Similarly, Syed Mohsin was accompanied by Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, demonstrating the high stakes involved for both parties.
Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed confidence in his party’s prospects, stating his hope that the people of Budgam would turn out in significant numbers to support the NC candidate. “Our entire organization stands with Aga Mehmood,” Abdullah affirmed. “Starting today, we will take our message directly to the people and hope that when results are announced, Aga Mehmood will emerge victorious with a substantial majority, ready to represent the people of Budgam in the assembly.”
The Budgam assembly seat became vacant after Chief Minister Abdullah resigned, choosing to retain the Ganderbal constituency, having won both in the previous election. When questioned about the timing of the NC’s candidate announcement, Abdullah clarified that the party was strategically waiting for others to declare their candidates. “There was no confusion within our party,” he explained. “We were simply observing. Most political parties filed their papers today. Our decision was made earlier, but we adapted our timing to the broader electoral strategy.”
Addressing concerns about vacating the Budgam seat last year, the Chief Minister emphasized that he had always been transparent with the constituents. “I initially did not intend to contest from two seats, but the party’s directive compelled me,” he stated. “Even after vacating the seat, we never neglected Budgam’s development, actively accelerating projects over the past year.”
Regarding potential support from estranged NC MP Aga Ruhullah, Chief Minister Abdullah remained indirect, noting that the party’s candidate had already addressed the matter. Earlier, Mr. Mehmood had publicly expressed his belief that Ruhullah, whom he considers like a son and a dedicated party member, would campaign for him. However, Aga Ruhullah later posted on social media platform X, reiterating his commitment to his “conscience and principles.” He urged his elders not to diminish his struggle, adding, “If they can’t comprehend it and be part of it, at least don’t drag me and my struggle to this level.”
Shifting focus to the Nagrota seat, Mr. Abdullah mentioned that the National Conference had put forward a candidate there after the Congress party declined to do so. He explained, “In 2014, we had a winning candidate in Nagrota, and we had a candidate last year as well. Now, our DDC member Shameema has been authorized by National Conference president Farooq Abdullah to file the nomination papers on behalf of the NC.”