BJP Sets Stage for J&K Elections Amid Internal Dissent and Security Prep

BJP is gearing up for the Jammu and Kashmir elections, thoroughly reviewing the first phase. However, internal dissent arises as local party workers protest against outsider candidates. Security measures are being tightened to avoid any incidents during the polls. This marks the first election post the abrogation of Article 370.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in full swing with election preparations in Jammu and Kashmir, as announced by National General Secretary Tarun Chugh. Having completed the first phase review, the party is engaging all major leaders' opinions to strategize for the next phases. Chugh emphasized that the BJP enters the elections with full strength and no alliances, contrasting with other parties that previously endorsed Pakistan's influence.

Concurrently, Ramban SSP Kulbir Singh assured tightened security across the district to prevent any untoward incidents during the polls. Singh stated, 'Our preparations are going on in full swing...We are tightening the security arrangements. We will try our best to ensure that no untoward incident takes place.'

In a contrasting development, BJP's District President from Samba, Kashmira Singh, resigned in protest over candidate selection for the upcoming valley elections. Singh highlighted his decades-long dedication to the party and criticized the allocation of tickets to outsiders. His resignation follows a broader dissent within the party, as locals in the Chhamb constituency protested, demanding local representation.

The protest, carrying slogans like 'Bahar Ka Pratyashi Nahi Chalega' and 'Hum Kya Chahte, Local Pratyashi,' saw hundreds marching against the BJP's candidate list. The Election Commission has scheduled polling in Jammu and Kashmir in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, with vote counting set for October 8.

Jammu and Kashmir hold 90 assembly constituencies, and these elections are the first after the abrogation of Article 370. The last elections saw a coalition government formed by PDP and BJP, which dissolved in 2018 after BJP withdrew its support.

(With inputs from agencies.)