It toppled the ruling Peoples Democratic Party in the 2015 presidential elections.

The performance of the pro-Kurdish Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) could prove decisive.

This contributed greatly to the fall of the Peoples Democratic Party after 16 years in power.

In Africa for example, these splits are often associated with unresolved leadership tussles as was the case of the Peoples Democratic Party in Nigeria.

Aside from Congress, other parties contesting the polls include the main opposition Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, the regional National Conference and the Peoples Democratic Party.

Besides Congress and its main opposition Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, the regional National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party are also contesting in the Himalayan region.