By NNN-PTI,
Srinagar : The stakes are high for three former Chief Ministers from PDP, Congress and the National Conference, who are eying the top slot, as they face a tight multi-cornered contest in their Assembly constituencies this time.
While NC leader Farooq Abdullah, is contesting from Hazratbal and Sonawar constituencies, PDP patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed is in the fray from Anantnag.
Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad who made the maiden entry into the Assembly in 2006 bypoll from Bhaderwah segment is seeking re-election.
Amid signs of a hung assembly, the electoral fortunes of these heavyweights are likely to play a crucial role in post poll alliance in the state, observers say.
Not one of the 87 constituencies is witnessing straight or triangular contest. A record number of over 1,200 candidates are contesting elections this time as against 706 in 2002 and 531 in 1996.
Abdullah who did not contest the 2002 polls is facing a formidable challenge from PDP in both the constituencies.
In Hazratbal, he is pitted against PDP’s Aisha Naqash besides 20 others, while in Sonawar, Abdullah is being challenged by veteran PDP leader G Q Paradesi and 10 other candidates.
Observers claim that NC and PDP are neck-to-neck in the two constituencies.
Abdullah, a three time legislator (1983, 1987 and 1996), is for the first time seeking election from more than one segment.