Budgam, Oct 20 (JKNS): The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) has officially fielded senior party leader and former minister Agha Syed Mehmood as its candidate for the upcoming Budgam Assembly by-election. Political observers and locals describe him as the strongest and most credible contender in the race.
The National Conference’s decision to repose trust in Agha Mehmood has been widely welcomed across Budgam. Locals expressed optimism that his candidature will bring renewed focus to the constituency’s developmental and socio-economic needs.
Residents told Jammu Kashmir News Service (JKNS) that the party’s move reflects a sense of continuity and stability in the region’s political landscape.
“The way the National Conference has shown confidence in Agha Syed Mehmood is fortunate for the people of Budgam,” said a local voter, adding that his past experience as a minister gives him an edge in addressing ground-level issues.
Agha Syed Mehmood, who has previously represented Budgam, enjoys deep-rooted connections with the constituency. His earlier tenure is remembered for several developmental initiatives in infrastructure, education, and rural welfare. Many political analysts believe his return to active electoral politics could revive the National Conference’s influence in central Kashmir.
Drawing a parallel to party vice-president Omar Abdullah’s early political journey, several residents remarked that just as Omar once won from Budgam before moving to Ganderbal, the current leadership’s faith in Agha Mehmood signifies confidence in experienced and proven leadership.
Speaking to media persons after filing his nomination papers, Agha Syed Mehmood expressed gratitude to the party leadership for reposing trust in him.
“The confidence shown by the National Conference is indeed a blessing for the people of Budgam. My commitment is to represent them sincerely, serve my native area, and complete all unfinished works that remain pending,” he said.
He added that his focus will remain on grassroots development, public welfare, and restoring Budgam’s political vibrancy.
With the by-election shaping up into a close contest between the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Budgam is once again witnessing intense political activity. As campaigns gain momentum, all eyes remain on how Agha Syed Mehmood’s experience and popularity will translate into electoral success for the NC. (JKNS)
