Debutant PDP MLA who won Omar's seat says J&K Assembly still powerful
Times of India
by NASEER GANAIFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Aga Syed Muntazir, a debutant MLA from the PDP, won the Budgam assembly seat in a November 2025 bypoll, despite an intensive campaign by the CM and his Cabinet. Muntazir, speaking to TOI outside the J&K Assembly, emphasized that the institution remains powerful even after the abrogation of Article 370 and the downgrading of Jammu and Kashmir into a union territory. He expressed optimism about reclaiming political space and restoring people’s rights through the Assembly, calling it a legitimate and influential body. Muntazir urged all parties and legislators to avoid discouraging rhetoric about the Assembly’s powers, highlighting that its legitimacy was reaffirmed by unprecedented voter turnout in recent polls.
Muntazir, 38, is the son of Aga Syed Hasan, a prominent Shia cleric and former Hurriyat leader. Before entering politics, he worked as a grassroots activist and holds an LLM degree. His victory marked a significant setback for the CM, who had vacated the seat after winning it in 2024. Muntazir pointed out that Budgam has faced neglect over the past two decades, despite its proximity to Srinagar. He attributes the people’s vote for change to years of unmet demands for better infrastructure, education, and basic services. Since joining the Assembly, he has consistently raised concerns about roads, drinking water, healthcare, and literacy rates in his constituency.
The MLA also criticized the National Conference (NC) for failing to deliver on promises during its long tenure in Budgam. He emphasized that political rhetoric without action has no lasting impact. Muntazir highlighted a key promise made by the CM to establish a National Law University in Budgam, which he believes must be fulfilled. He stressed that the Assembly’s strength lies in its ability to hold the government accountable and deliver on commitments made within its halls. By advocating for the empowerment of the J&K Assembly, Muntazir is positioning himself as a voice for grassroots change and regional autonomy.
Muntazir’s win and his stance on the Assembly’s powers underscore the ongoing political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir. His victory
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026