BJP’s Steady Progress in Kashmir Despite Zero Wins

The BJP’s electoral performance in Kashmir may seem dismal at first glance, with the party failing to win any of the 19 seats it contested and losing deposits in nearly all. However, a closer look reveals that the BJP has made some significant strides in the region. While the party’s vote share in Kashmir was a mere 2.5% in 2014, it rose to 5.8% in the latest elections. Although no seat was secured, this increase reflects strategic choices that could pay off in future elections.

The party's best showing came in the Gurez constituency, where it managed to capture 40% of the votes, nearly winning the seat. Gurez is significant not only for its geopolitical location near the Line of Control but also for being the only constituency where the BJP saved its deposit. In contrast, the Habbakadal constituency in Srinagar saw the BJP coming second but with significantly fewer votes, and the party still lost its deposit.

The National Conference-Congress alliance dominated the elections in Kashmir, winning 41 out of the 47 seats. Despite the setback, the BJP's incremental gains indicate a slow but steady inroad into a region traditionally hostile to the party, driven partly by anger over the abrogation of Article 370. Looking ahead, these elections provide the BJP with data and lessons that could shape its strategy in the next electoral battle.