1977 Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly election

The 1977 Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly election was a significant political event held in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India, from March 19 to March 26, 1977. Conducted under the backdrop of a changed political landscape following the emergency period in India (1975–1977), the election marked the first democratic exercise in the state since 1972. The key contest was primarily between the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC), led by Sheikh Abdullah, and the Jammu and Kashmir People's Democratic Party (PDP), among other regional parties. The election resulted in a substantial victory for the National Conference, which secured a majority of seats in the assembly, facilitating Sheikh Abdullah's return to power as Chief Minister. The election is noted for its relatively high voter turnout and the restoration of democratic norms in the region.