The News Minute | December 23, 2014 | 6.40 pm ISTElections in Jammu and Kashmir have always been complex, and often accompanied by calls for Azaadi, allegations of rigging, pressure, preventive arrests, boycotts, crackdowns and so much more.But 2014, will possibly stand out for several reasons: an unprecedented tragedy in the form of the floods in September and the presence of a BJP that is still high on the euphoria of the Lok Sabha elections, then Maharashtra and Haryana.The impact of the floods in September which affected lakhs of people in Jammu region and the Kashmir valley, are still being felt. People’s houses, livelihoods, and property have been damaged or destroyed, and still not restored. Speaking to a cross section of people in Srinagar and other flood affected areas in the valley, one witnessed a lot of anger against both the National Conference government and the Army which carried out rescue operations, for their inadequate rescue efforts.A resident of Srinagar told this reporter: “The army dropped dog biscuits in this area. Are Kashmiris dogs?â€Some of the anger is also directed at the National Conference government which was in power at the time. Many people feel that the government did nothing to help the people. Several youth who spoke to this reporter said that it was local youth who often went around in Srinagar to help people, using shikaras and whatever else they could think of to try and rescue people.Many people also said that the elections should not be perceived as a rejection of azaadi. People in several areas across the valley said that while they would vote for civic amenities, it did not mean that they had given up their demand for independence. In many parts of the valley such as in Kulgam, Baramulla, and Sopore, people boycotted the elections.Voter turnout has increased over the 2008 elections by four percent.The following graphs help put the numbers into perspective:A vote-share pie-chart that compares the 2008 elections with the 2014 polls, with the focus on four major political parties with maximum seats and a say in government formation. The Congress emerges as the big loser.The next set of two looks at the number of seats in the Assembly as a comparison. The PDP and BJP have made great strides.The next graph looks specifically at the BJP's gain in seats from the last Assembly election.The Abdullahs have lost hold of Kashmir. J&K Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, of the National Conference just managed to win Beerwah but lost Sonawar. Here's a look at the margins.Finally, a breakdown of the state into three divisions, Jammu, the Kashmir valley and Leh. And a party-wise count in the regions.Tweet