Jammu and Kashmir BJP President Ravinder Raina expressed strong confidence in the party’s ability to form the next government in the union territory, asserting that PDP’s Mehbooba Mufti would not be included in that administration.
“There is a significant wave of support for the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir. We will form the government here, thanks to the overwhelming backing from the people. The next Chief Minister of J&K will be from the BJP,” Raina stated to reporters on Thursday. He also extended his gratitude to the diverse communities in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising that “Mehbooba Mufti will not be part of the BJP government.”
In related developments, Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticised National Conference leader Omar Abdullah and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding their comments on statehood during the election campaign. Shah asserted that the restoration of statehood can only be initiated by the central government. Speaking at an election rally in Kathua, he also commented on Abdullah’s decision to contest from two seats, suggesting that the NC leader is “scared.” Shah remarked, “Omar Abdullah dreams of becoming Chief Minister again. After two phases of voting, both the NC and Congress have been largely eliminated.
Omar sahib previously stated he wouldn’t run in elections until Jammu and Kashmir regained statehood, but now he’s contesting from two separate seats because he is afraid. I’ve made it clear in Parliament that statehood will be restored after the elections in Jammu & Kashmir. Rahul baba, you are in opposition and cannot restore statehood; it can only happen when the BJP chooses.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also targeted Congress, questioning Rahul Gandhi’s stance on the National Conference’s push for the revival of Article 370 and Article 35A, as well as a separate flag for Jammu and Kashmir. During an address in the Ramgarh Assembly Constituency, CM Yogi asked, “I want to know if Rahul Gandhi supports the National Conference’s demand for a separate flag for Jammu and Kashmir. Does he support their call to restore Article 370 and 35A, pushing the region back into unrest and terrorism?”
The first two phases of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections took place on September 18 and 25, respectively, with the third and final phase scheduled for October 1. Vote counting is set for October 8. These elections are the first in nearly ten years and the first since the abrogation of Article 370.
(With inputs from ANI)