BJP’s Shocking Rajya Sabha Victory in Jammu and Kashmir Sparks Cross-Voting Political Storm

In a surprising twist, the BJP secured an unexpected Rajya Sabha seat in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite limited numbers, cross-voting helped them win, leaving opposition parties stunned and confused.

Edited By: Vinay

Reported By: Raman Saini

Last Updated : 24 October 2025, 08:49 PM IST

Courtesy: Social Media (Courtesy: Social Media)

Jammu and Kashmir: The first Rajya Sabha election in Jammu and Kashmir delivered a result no one anticipated. While the National Conference secured three seats, the Bharatiya Janata Party shocked observers by bagging the fourth. The BJP, despite having fewer MLAs in the Assembly, managed a victory that has unsettled the political equations. This outcome has raised sharp questions over possible cross-voting and shifting loyalties among lawmakers in the state.

Where Did Extra Votes Come From?

The Assembly strength gave the BJP only 28 expected votes. However, when results were declared, BJP candidate Sat Sharma had 32 votes in his favor. In contrast, the National Conference candidate managed only 22. The mystery of those extra four votes has turned into the biggest talking point. Political analysts are now examining which legislators broke party lines and why they supported the BJP.

Did Omar Abdullah Miscalculate Support?

Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had confidently claimed before voting that all independent MLAs were standing with the National Conference. However, the results dealt a blow to his credibility. With the BJP gaining more votes than expected, Abdullah’s assertion appears hollow. The episode has sparked debates over whether the NC leadership overestimated its strength or if hidden political understandings were at play behind the scenes.

Is Cross-Voting the New Trend?

NC–BJP Fix Match!
NC has betrayed the people of J&K for decades. They didn’t even need my vote even then, I voted against communal politics and for unity and justice.
But NC deliberately cast extra votes on the 3rd RS seat to help BJP win the 4th a clear fix match!
Now, Can we…
— Mehraj Malik (@MehrajMalikAAP) October 24, 2025

Observers say this unexpected win could change the political direction of Jammu and Kashmir. The possibility of cross-voting and hidden alliances is being discussed openly. Parties are scrambling to figure out how many MLAs ignored party whips and whether these actions signal new realignments. For the BJP, this win goes far beyond one Rajya Sabha seat—it signals deeper political penetration into the state’s assembly politics.

Will This Alter Political Equations?

The outcome has already triggered speculations of fresh alliances and shifting political loyalties. With the BJP gaining ground in such a surprising manner, rivals are nervous about what this means for upcoming contests. Many believe the NC and other opposition forces will have to rethink their strategies. The election result is not just about numbers; it represents a reshaping of political trust and influence in the region.

Could This Affect Future Polls?

With this success, the BJP has gained more than a seat—it has earned a psychological edge. Political experts argue that this win could embolden the party to expand its influence ahead of future Assembly elections. Meanwhile, other parties may need to strengthen discipline among their legislators to prevent more such surprises. The cross-voting episode has shown that party lines in Jammu and Kashmir may no longer be as firm as before.

What Lies Ahead for Politics?

The Rajya Sabha results have left Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape shaken. Allegations of betrayal, whispers of deals, and questions over loyalty will dominate the state’s politics in the coming weeks. Public trust in party claims may weaken further, while the BJP celebrates its unexpected boost. Ultimately, this one seat may reshape the balance of power and set the stage for new strategies across all major political players.