Jammu and Kashmir’s political fervor intensifies with the conclusion of nominations for by-elections in Budgam and Nagrota on October 20, 2025. The elections, scheduled for November 11, 2025, with results announced on November 14, were triggered by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah vacating Budgam and the passing of BJP MLA Devender Singh Rana in Nagrota.
The Budgam constituency is abuzz with an unprecedented ‘Aga vs. Aga’ electoral clash, featuring members of the influential Aga family. The National Conference (NC) has fielded Aga Syed Mehmood, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has nominated Aga Muntazir, his nephew and a prominent figure who shifted from separatist politics to mainstream leadership. This contest in a Shia-majority area, traditionally an NC stronghold, is further complicated by the family’s deep connections with religious bodies like Anjuman-e-Sharie Shiayan.
Adding a unique dynamic, NC MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, a relative of the candidates, has announced he will not participate in the NC’s campaign. He cited adherence to his ‘conscience and principles,’ particularly amidst ongoing debates over reservation policies, underscoring internal party disagreements.
In Nagrota, the by-poll is noteworthy for becoming a ‘women vs. women’ contest. The NC has nominated Shameema Firdous, a District Development Council (DDC) winner, to face Devyani Rana, the daughter of the deceased BJP MLA, Devender Singh Rana. This presents a powerful narrative of female leadership.
Devyani Rana is positioned as the BJP’s candidate, capitalizing on her father’s legacy and the party’s robust infrastructure. Shameema Firdous, backed by the NC, offers strong grassroots credentials and aims to leverage the party’s regional support. Nagrota, a BJP stronghold, is now set for a high-stakes electoral showdown.
The Congress party, an ally of the NC, has decided to sit out the election. This tactical decision could consolidate opposition votes for the NC, but it risks alienating some Congress supporters given prior alliance strains regarding Rajya Sabha seat sharing. These by-elections represent a significant test for the BJP’s dominance in Jammu and the NC’s ability to regain a seat lost in 2014. The NC is likely to focus on development agendas, while the BJP might emphasize emotional appeals linked to the late MLA’s tenure.