Jammu and Kashmir Gears Up for First Elections Post-Article 370 Abrogation

Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir are bolstering their preparations for the Union Territory's upcoming elections in September. Key issues include the restoration of Article 370 and regional reservation rights. The BJP aims to counter opposing manifestos and secure a stronghold in the first elections since the Article's abrogation.

Political parties have ramped up their electoral preparations in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which will hold elections in three phases starting from September 18, 25, and October 1. Vote counting is scheduled for October 8.

The National Conference and the People's Democratic Party have included the restoration of Article 370 in their manifestos. The BJP, however, claims that Article 370 is now irrelevant. These elections mark the first polls in the Union Territory since the Article's abrogation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while releasing the BJP manifesto in Jammu, criticized the manifestos of Congress and the National Conference. He accused them of intending to spread terrorism, revoke reservations for Gujjars, Bakarwal, Paharis, and Dalits, release criminals, and restart LoC trade with Pakistan.

Highlighting the BJP's 10-point agenda, Shah questioned if Congress and NC plan to bring back two flags and Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. He assured that reservations for Gujjars, Bakarwal, Paharis, and Dalits will remain intact. Shah emphasized that the abrogation of Article 370 has empowered women and vowed to prevent the release of criminals involved in terrorism. He dismissed any talks with Pakistan unless peace prevails.

In an interview with ANI, NC Vice-President Omar Abdullah reiterated the long struggle associated with restoring Article 370 and special status for J&K. He remarked that reversing the abrogation is a lengthy process requiring multiple government changes at the center.

The National Conference and Congress have formed a pre-poll alliance. Jammu and Kashmir, with 90 assembly constituencies, has 88.06 lakh eligible voters. In the previous elections, PDP secured 28 seats, BJP 25, NC 15, and Congress 12.

(With inputs from agencies.)