Jammu and Kashmir bypolls: NC, BJP candidates file nominations for Budgam

Candidates of the ruling National Conference and opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday (October 20, 2025) filed nomination papers for the bypolls to the Budgam meeting phase in Jammu and Kashmir.

While the National Conference has named veteran Shia chief Aga Mehmood as its candidate, the BJP has fielded Syed Mohsin. The PDP has additionally introduced its candidate, Aga Muntazir Mehdi.

Aga Mehmood was accompanied by senior National Conference leaders, together with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, whereas Syed Mohsin was joined by Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma whereas submitting nomination papers.

Talking to reporters, Mr. Abdullah stated he was hopeful that the individuals of Budgam would vote in giant numbers for his get together’s candidate.

“The total organisation is with Aga Mehmood. From at the moment, we are going to take our message to the individuals and hope that when outcomes are declared, Aga Mehmood will probably be a winner by an enormous majority and signify the individuals of Budgam within the meeting,” the Chief Minister stated.

The Budgam meeting phase will go to bypolls on November 11 because the seat had fallen vacant following Mr. Abdullah’s resignation after he determined to retain the Ganderbal seat, having efficiently contested from each constituencies.

Mr. Abdullah stated National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, in session with get together leaders, determined that Aga Mehmood was one of the best candidate for the NC.

“There was no confusion in our get together… we had been ready for others. We had been in no hurry. Candidates of virtually all political events filed papers at the moment. How did we delay? We had determined earlier, however we additionally performed together with others. Elections are contested beneath a method,” he added.

Asked about his choice to vacate the Budgam seat in favour of Ganderbal final 12 months, the Chief Minister stated he had by no means stored the individuals of Budgam at nighttime.

“I didn’t need to contest from two seats, however I used to be compelled (by the get together). After leaving the seat, we didn’t abandon it or ignore the event of Budgam. In the final one 12 months, we’ve expedited works,” he stated.

Asked if estranged NC MP Aga Ruhullah would help Aga Mehmood, the Chief Minister prevented a direct reply, saying the get together candidate had already spoken about it.

Mr. Mehmood earlier advised reporters that Mr. Ruhullah was like his son and a celebration man, and that he anticipated the MP to marketing campaign for him.

However, Mr. Ruhullah took to X, saying his loyalty was to his conscience and ideas. “While I maintain respect for my elders in my household, I request them to not belittle my struggle (our struggle). If they will’t understand it and be a part of it, at the least don’t drag me and my wrestle to this stage,” he stated.

On the Nagrota seat, Mr. Abdullah stated his get together had fielded a candidate after the Congress refused to take action.

“In 2014, we had a (profitable) candidate there. Last 12 months additionally, we had a candidate. Now our DDC member Shameema has been authorised by Farooq Abdullah to file the nomination papers on behalf of the NC,” he stated.