Showkat Beigh A massive political shift has unfolded in Jammu and Kashmir. The People’s Democratic Party has swept the Budgam by-election, with its young candidate Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi defeating the ruling National Conference. What makes this victory even more significant is the strong reaction from locals—who say their vote was a message to the government. Budgam witnessed a wave of enthusiasm as counting trends turned into a clear verdict. PDP’s Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi surged ahead early and maintained a commanding lead, reflecting what many here describe as 'a vote for change.' The victory isn’t just numerical—it carries the emotions of frustrated voters who expected more from the ruling National Conference government over the past year. Crowds gathered outside the counting centre, waving PDP flags and shouting slogans as the final rounds confirmed a decisive sweep. Local Reactions: Local 1 (Youth): “NC did nothing for us. No jobs, no development. This time we wanted to teach them a lesson. PDP deserved this win.” Local 2: “For one year, we waited for improvement. Roads, electricity—nothing changed. That’s why Budgam voted for Aga Muntazir.” Local 3 (Elderly Citizen): “Humne badlav ke liye vote diya. PDP ka candidate imaandaar hai. Umar Abdullah ki sarkar se log naraaz the.” Local 4: “We want leaders who meet us, listen to us. Muntazir sahib came to our doors. NC leaders didn’t.” The star of the moment, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, thanked the people for what he called “a mandate against neglect.” Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi (Winner): “This is not just my victory—it’s Budgam’s victory. People were disappointed with the government. Now our responsibility begins.” PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, who actively campaigned in the constituency, said the result reflects the anger building at the grassroots. Mehbooba Mufti said: “Budgam has risen against non-performance. They wanted dignity and delivery—both were missing. People have spoken loudly today.” Mehbooba Mufti on Friday expressed gratitude to the voters in Budgam… I pray to Allah to give us the strength to serve the people of Budgam and fulfil the trust they have placed in Muntazir Mehdi Sahib. She described him as educated, accessible and dedicated. “Aga Muntazir Mehdi is an educated man. His doors will always be open for the people of Budgam and he will serve them with full honesty and commitment,” Iltija Mufti said the ruling party’s complacency cost them the seat. “Budgam is politically aware, and people rejected hollow claims. This is a new beginning for J&K politics. The party’s historic win marks the beginning of PDP’s revival. The verdict reflects not only a political shift but also the people’s disappointment with the National Conference’s leadership.” Omar Abdullah: Concedes defeat, says NC Working Committee meeting to analyse poll performance; asks whether dismantling houses would stop terrorism in Kashmir; He said the party will analyse results in Budgam and Nagrota to take necessary steps for the future. Even after the results, celebrations continued deep into Budgam’s interiors. From Chadoora to Charar-e-Sharief, locals said this vote was not just political—but emotional. Local 5 (Farmer): “Har election mein wada hota hai. Is bar humne faisla kiya ki jinhone kaam nahi karaya, unhe vote nahi.” Local 6 (College student): “Young voters wanted a new face. Muntazir represents that change.”