By: Afaq Bhat
Srinagar: The resurgence of COVID-19 has led to the political activities coming to a halt once again.
An analyst while talking to Precious Kashmir said, “During the past few days political activities in J&K have come to a standstill. The politicians have gone into an isolation to save themselves from getting infected. No political gatherings are taking place and offices of different political parties, especially in Kashmir, are closed.”
It’s in place to mention here that National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah and his son, Omar Abdullah, had tested positive for the COVID-19. “The political activities in the NC camp had come to a halt soon after that. Both the leaders have recuperated but they haven’t become active yet,” the analyst added.
The Peoples Conference led by Sajad Gani Lone had created ripples in the political arena of the Valley just a few days before the second COVID-19 wave intensified. Top leaders, including Muzaffar Hussain Beigh, Basharat Bukhari and others from North Kashmir had joined the Peoples Conference with a promise that “big developments” would take place in coming days. But the PC has also gone silent. Muzaffar Hussain Beigh and his wife Safina Beigh too had tested positive for the virus but they too have fought the virus and have recovered.
An observer said, “Before the second cave surfaced, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti was in all sorts of trouble. She had to face the questioning from Enforcement Directorate sleuths, passport was denied to her and most of her close aides deserted the party. She too has gone silent.”
He said, “It seems that the COVID-19 curve may not get flattened soon and for time being the politicians can stay aloof as they have not been left with much to do.”
“To keep themselves afloat the political parties are issuing statements asking the government to provide facilities to the people and remain alert. Roles of political parties in J&K have been curtailed to a great extent. In the given situation these parties cannot do much. The emerging situation is a very difficult one. Everyone seems to be helpless as the COVID-19 has taken the centre stage,” the observer added.
A politician said, “There is a bleak possibility about the political activities getting revived in near future. Political leaders will have to wait till the second wave subsides. Assembly elections won’t be held till the delimitation process gets completed. There is no other choice other than to wait and watch.”
COVID-19 resurgence puts breaks on political activities in Kashmir
