In the ongoing assembly elections in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in Haryana, while an alliance between the Congress and National Conference (NC) is ahead in Jammu and Kashmir. These elections are being closely watched as they are the first state polls since the BJP’s return to power in the general elections earlier this year.

In Haryana, the BJP is on track for a third consecutive victory, overcoming challenges like anti-incumbency, previous farm law protests, and dissatisfaction over the Agniveer recruitment scheme. Despite earlier predictions favouring the Congress, the BJP’s performance indicates continued support, particularly in rural areas.

Meanwhile, in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress-NC alliance is leading in 48 of the 90 assembly seats, with the BJP trailing at 29 seats, largely due to its strong showing in the Hindu-majority Jammu region. This marks the first assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir since the region’s special status was revoked in 2019.

The outcome of these elections is significant as Jammu and Kashmir had not held local elections since 2014. This election is being seen as a step toward restoring democratic processes in the region, though concerns remain about the influence of the federally appointed lieutenant governor over key decisions.

Results are still being counted, and both states are expected to see coalition governments if no single party crosses the halfway mark.