Rahul Gandhi Pledges to Restore J&K’s Statehood, Urges Massive Voter Turnout

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi calls the withdrawal of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood a constitutional violation. As elections begin, he emphasizes that voting for the INDIA alliance will restore rights and bring prosperity. Parties like PDP and BJP are also competing. Voters are urged to engage actively.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday described the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood as a constitutional rights violation. Speaking to voters, he assured that their support for the INDIA alliance would restore their lost rights. Voting began at 7 am for the assembly's first phase amid strong security measures.

"For the first time in our nation's history, a state has been demoted to a union territory — this violates your constitutional rights and insults Jammu and Kashmir," Gandhi stated on X. "Every vote for INDIA will restore your rights, create job opportunities, empower women, and end this 'Injustice Era,' bringing prosperity back to Jammu and Kashmir. Today, come out in large numbers to exercise your democratic right and vote for INDIA," he urged.

The Congress and the National Conference are contesting the elections as allies. The PDP, BJP, and People's Conference are among those vying for the 90 assembly seats. Voting ends at 6 pm. Early morning saw long queues of voters at polling stations.

In the Doda Assembly Constituency, National Conference candidate Khalid Najib Suharwardy called for active electoral participation, highlighting the importance of reclaiming the region's special status. He encouraged valley residents to vote to restore Jammu and Kashmir's special status.

After casting his vote, Suharwardy told ANI, "Voting is progressing smoothly with a positive trend. We are optimistic about a National Conference victory. This election is crucial as it comes after ten years. We aim to regain statehood and special status, and this election is the first step towards that goal."

(With inputs from agencies.)