The political arena in Jammu and Kashmir is buzzing with the conclusion of the nomination process for by-elections in Budgam and Nagrota constituencies on October 20, 2025. Voting is scheduled for November 11, 2025, with results to follow on November 14. The vacancies arose after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah resigned from Budgam and the passing of BJP MLA Devender Singh Rana in Nagrota.
Budgam’s seat, a traditional bastion of the National Conference (NC) in a Shia-majority region, has transformed into a dramatic family affair. The NC has nominated Aga Syed Mehmood, facing off against PDP’s Aga Muntazir, who is Mehmood’s nephew and a politician who transitioned from separatist politics to the mainstream. This internal family clash, termed ‘Aga vs. Aga,’ is amplified by the family’s significant influence through religious organizations like Anjuman-e-Sharie Shiayan.
Adding a significant twist, NC Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, a prominent figure from the same family, has publicly declared his dissociation from the NC’s campaign. He cited a commitment to his ‘conscience and principles’ amidst ongoing disagreements on issues such as reservation policies, indicating internal party friction.
In Nagrota, the by-poll is shaping up as a notable contest between two women. Shameema Firdous, a District Development Council (DDC) winner backed by the NC, is challenging Devyani Rana, the daughter of the late BJP MLA Devender Singh Rana. This narrative highlights the growing prominence of women in electoral politics.
Devyani Rana brings the weight of her familial legacy and the robust support of the BJP, while Shameema Firdous banks on her established grassroots connections and the NC’s widespread appeal. Nagrota, previously a stronghold for the BJP, is now the stage for a highly anticipated showdown.
The Congress party, allied with the NC, has chosen not to field a candidate. While this might consolidate opposition votes for the NC, it could also stir discontent among Congress supporters, particularly given existing disagreements over Rajya Sabha seat sharing. The by-election is a critical test of the BJP’s hold and the NC’s capacity to regain a seat lost in 2014. The NC is expected to focus on governance, while the BJP may leverage emotional connections to the late MLA’s tenure.