BJP Debuts Candidate List for Jammu & Kashmir Polls, More Announcements Soon

The Bharatiya Janata Party has released its first list of 15 candidates for Phase-1 of the Jammu and Kashmir elections. State President Ravinder Raina announces a second list will follow. BJP plans to contest the elections independently, emphasizing their commitment to addressing regional issues and restoring integrity.

In a significant move ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has unveiled its first list of 15 candidates for Phase-1. BJP state president Ravinder Raina confirmed that the party will soon announce a second list. He emphasized that the timing of the first list aligns with the last date for nominations, set for August 27.

'In its first list, the party has named candidates for the first phase of the polls, considering the last day of nominations is 27th August. The party will soon release the second list,' Raina stated. He further declared that the BJP will contest the elections independently while also exploring alliances with some independent candidates.

'We will fight the election on our own. We are also talking to some independent candidates,' Raina asserted. One notable candidate is Arshid Bhat from the Rajpora Assembly constituency in Pulwama district, who expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Modi and the party for the opportunity.

'I am thankful to PM Modi for recognizing my efforts in social service and giving me this chance to be the voice of the people in Pulwama,' said Bhat. Highlighting the issues in the region, Bhat added, 'A political disease has been existing here. We want to contest this election considering the situation of this place and being the voice of the people. The intellectual assets of Pulwama were destroyed through backdoor entries, J&K bank was looted, and corrupt leadership was established.'

BJP's candidate from the Pampore Assembly constituency, Er Syed Showkat Gayoor Andrabi, also expressed his gratitude. 'I am thankful to the party for showing their confidence in me. Competition is tough, but I have been a political activist for 19 years and have worked diligently for the people. I believe people will make a thoughtful decision,' Andrabi remarked.

The Jammu and Kashmir elections will be conducted in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, as per the Election Commission of India. The vote counting is scheduled for October 4. The region comprises 90 assembly constituencies, with 7 seats reserved for SCs and 9 for STs.

(With inputs from agencies.)