The Persistence of Traditional Politics in Jammu & Kashmir: A Critical Analysis
The Persistence of Traditional Politics in Jammu & Kashmir: A Critical Analysis. By Akshay Thakur, A Political Science Student & Political Analyst. As the much-anticipated Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) Assembly elections unfold, a disheartening trend resurfaces—an unyielding grip of traditional politics that continues to dominate the region. Despite the fervor surrounding these elections, there is little to suggest that the political landscape has evolved. The same established candidates are contesting, with minimal participation from young or women candidates, reflecting a significant neglect of fresh perspectives and inclusive representation. The Dominance of Personality Cults & Party Loyalty. In J&K, politics has increasingly become a battleground where personality cults thrive. Voters are more inclined to cast their ballots based on party affiliations and the popularity of prominent figures rather than on the individual merits of the candidates themselves...