Amid ongoing talks of religious leaders and parties entering the electoral fray, a renowned Kashmiri cleric is likely to contest the assembly elections in Jammu Kashmir.
Sources told The Kashmiriyat that Molana Ghulam Rasool Hami, a well-known preacher from Srinagar, will contest the assembly polls scheduled to start on September 18.
Fifty-year-old Hami is a key spiritual figure from the Valley with followers spread across Jammu and Kashmir.
This development comes amid discussions between another religious group, Jammat Islami, and the government regarding participation in the electoral process.
Although Jammat Islami has not received a response regarding the ban imposed by the central government, which they seek to have lifted, the party is keen to participate in the upcoming polls.
Several other religious and social figures from the Kashmir Valley are reportedly in dialogue with various political parties and the government to express their willingness to participate in the elections.
Sources told The Kashmiriyat that Molana Ghulam Rasool Hami is considering contesting from the Beerwah constituency in Budgam district. Also under consideration is the Shaltang seat in Srinagar district.
Hami’s participation in the elections is seen as an interesting development, already sparking speculation about his possible influence in the political battle for Kashmir’s assembly, following a ten-year hiatus.
The Kashmiriyat attempted to contact Molana Ghulam Rasool Hami, but he was unavailable for comment regarding this development.