Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have expressed approval of the Election Commission of India's (ECI) decision to hold elections for four vacant Rajya Sabha seats from the Union Territory on October 24, 2025. The seats have remained unoccupied since 2021, and parties, while noting the delay, welcomed the move as a step toward restoring representation in the Upper House of Parliament. The announcement follows the establishment of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, which now provides the necessary electorate for the biennial elections.

The four Rajya Sabha seats became vacant in February 2021 after the terms of former members Ghulam Nabi Azad, Nazir Ahmed Laway, Fayaz Ahmed Mir, and Shamsher Singh Manhas ended. The absence of an elected legislative assembly in the Union Territory at the time had delayed the elections, as the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, mandates that the assembly forms the electoral college for these polls. With the assembly elections held in 2024, the ECI has now set October 24, 2025, for the polls, with vote counting to follow an hour after polling concludes.

National Conference leader Sheikh Bashir described the announcement as "better late than never," emphasizing that the elections were long overdue. Similarly, Congress chief spokesperson Ravinder Sharma called the decision "right but delayed," noting that the electoral college had been in place for nearly a year. Sharma added that the Congress leadership would soon meet to strategize for the elections, ensuring decisions align with the party’s central leadership. The extended lack of representation in the Rajya Sabha has been a point of contention, with parties highlighting the need for Jammu and Kashmir’s voice in Parliament.

Also Read: Rare Golden-Haired Bat Uncovered in Mizoram: India’s New Wildlife Sensation

BJP spokesperson Zorawar Singh Jamwal also welcomed the announcement, stating that the newly elected MPs would advocate for the welfare and development of Jammu and Kashmir. The elections mark a significant step in strengthening the Union Territory’s representation in national governance, addressing a gap that has persisted for over four years. Political parties are now gearing up to select candidates and campaign ahead of the October 24 deadline.

Also Read: Brands Turn Durga Puja Into India’s Biggest Festival Marketing Machine