Srinagar: Speculation is intensifying in Kashmir due to the current political climate, and recent developments have stirred considerable interest. The family of Sarjan Barkati is set to file the nomination paper from Shopian today.

Family members as per The Kashmiriyat, said that Barkati who is jailed in Srinagar under anti-national charges will hold a public meeting at their home in Reban Shopian.

Refusing to divulge any details, they said that everything will be said during the press conference at Shopian town on Tuesday afternoon.

The Kashmiriyat quoted sources as saying that the family members of Sarjan Barkati will hold a meeting at his residence in Reban Shopian after which the family members will file nomination papers at DC office Shopian.

They said that it is likely that Sarjan Barkati may contest elections and his daughter will make the announcement today regarding his candidature in the assembly elections scheduled to start from September 18, however, the family of Barkati speaking to The Kashmiriyat did not disclose any details.

Barkati, who became famous post 2016 civilian unrest has been in jail since august 2023. His wife was also arrested by SIA in militancy funding case in November 2023, leaving behind their teenage children.

The development comes amid several religious organisations and personalities joining the electoral fray.

Last week, a prominent cleric from south Kashmir Moulana Gull Mohammed Azhari announced his participation in the electoral fray from the Anantnag west seat on JDU ticket.

Jamaat e Islami, another religious- political outfit from the valley is also fielding independents from various parts of south Kashmir.