Rahul Gandhi Promises Statehood for Jammu & Kashmir if Elected

During a public rally, Rahul Gandhi vowed to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir if elected, criticizing the current administration and emphasizing the loss of democratic rights. He highlighted the role of the INDIA bloc and condemned BJP's policies affecting the poor and middle-class citizens.

In a fervent public rally, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi assured that the INDIA bloc would restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He criticized the current administration for placing decision-making power in the hands of an unelected outsider, the Lieutenant Governor, arguing that this undermines the will of the people.

Gandhi highlighted the unprecedented move of converting a state into a Union Territory (UT), stripping away democratic rights. He compared this to historical instances where states were bifurcated to form new states, insisting that Jammu and Kashmir's demotion to a UT was a grave injustice to its residents.

Targeting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Gandhi accused them of prioritizing the interests of billionaires over common citizens, citing examples of loan waivers for the wealthy while neglecting the needs of farmers, laborers, women, and students. He also criticized GST and demonetization policies, claiming they have led to job losses, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rahul Gandhi further claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's confident demeanor has shifted due to the rising influence of the INDIA bloc and Congress. He accused Modi of spreading hatred over the past decade and contrasted this with his party's commitment to promoting harmony.

As Jammu and Kashmir undergoes assembly elections, voter turnout has been significant. The first phase saw a 61.13% turnout, with subsequent phases scheduled for September 25 and October 1. Vote counting will conclude on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)