Amit Shah Applauds Voter Turnout in Jammu and Kashmir as Sign of Democratic Transformation

Union Home Minister Amit Shah credited the high voter turnout in the first phase of Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls as evidence of the region's democratic transformation. He criticized Congress, National Conference, and PDP for years of chaos and deprivation, also highlighting the historic nature of these elections post the abrogation of Article 370.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the first phase of voter turnout in Jammu and Kashmir's assembly polls as a sign of the region's ongoing transformation. Speaking at a public rally, Shah pointed fingers at Congress, National Conference (NC), and People's Democratic Party (PDP) for the turmoil and issues in the Union Territory.

The notable voter turnout of 61.13 percent in the initial polling phase across 24 constituencies and seven districts reflects the strengthening of democracy, according to Shah. He accused Congress, NC, and PDP of historically denying residents their electoral rights and failing to bring about development. Specifically, Shah criticized the absence of reservations for the Gurjar, Bakarwal, OBC, and Dalit communities under their regimes.

Shah underscored this election as the first since the abrogation of Article 370 and the granting of reservations to various communities. He asserted that Congress and NC will face significant losses this time. Taking aim at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, Shah assured that BJP will safeguard reservation policies despite opposition rhetoric.

(With inputs from agencies.)