Jammu and Kashmir is gearing up for significant by-elections in Budgam and Nagrota constituencies, with the nomination deadline passing on October 20, 2025. These crucial contests, scheduled for November 11, 2025, with results to be announced on November 14, stem from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah vacating Budgam and the unfortunate demise of BJP MLA Devender Singh Rana in Nagrota.
In Budgam, a constituency traditionally dominated by the National Conference (NC), the electoral landscape is defined by a compelling intra-family rivalry. The NC has nominated Aga Syed Mehmood, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has put forward Aga Muntazir, a nephew of Aga Mehmood and a former separatist now active in mainstream politics. This creates a high-stakes ‘Aga vs. Aga’ battle, highlighting the deep political influence of the Aga family, particularly through their association with religious bodies like Anjuman-e-Sharie Shiayan.
Adding another layer of complexity, NC Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, also a family member, has declared he will not campaign for the NC candidate, citing personal principles and disputes over reservation policies. This internal dissent within a prominent political family underscores the intricate dynamics at play.
Meanwhile, the Nagrota by-election is emerging as a significant ‘women vs. women’ contest. The NC has fielded Shameema Firdous, a District Development Council (DDC) winner, against Devyani Rana, the daughter of the late BJP MLA Devender Singh Rana. This battle amplifies the narrative of female leadership in the political arena.
Devyani Rana enters the fray leveraging her father’s legacy and the organizational might of the BJP, while Shameema Firdous counters with her grassroots experience and the NC’s regional influence. Nagrota, a BJP stronghold, now faces a high-profile challenge.
The Congress, an ally of the NC, has decided not to field its candidate, potentially consolidating opposition votes for the NC. However, this decision might also impact voter sentiment due to existing tensions over Rajya Sabha seat allocations.
The upcoming polls will be a key test for the BJP’s hold in Jammu and the NC’s efforts to regain ground in a seat it last secured in 2014. Expect intense campaigning focused on governance and development by the NC, and emotional appeals tied to the late MLA’s legacy by the BJP.