By Dr. Ashraf Zainabi

Budgam was once the heartbeat of central Kashmir's politics.

It stood by the National Conference through every political storm for nearly half a century.

Beyond a ballot symbol, the red plough was a matter of identity, a promise that Budgam's voice mattered.

But today, that trust feels shaken. What used to be a fortress of loyalty has turned into a battlefield of resentment and disbelief.

The story began with hope.

During the 2024 Assembly elections, Omar Abdullah, now the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, contested from Ganderbal and Budgam. He told voters he would retain whichever seat gave him more votes. That was a long-awaited recognition for Budgam.

People saw it as a commitment from a leader who had rarely looked their way. When Budgam gave him a larger mandate, there was celebration. The town believed its faith had finally been rewarded.

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