Congress and National Conference Concede Defeat Ahead of Jammu and Kashmir Elections: G Kishan Reddy

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy claims Congress and National Conference have admitted defeat before the conclusion of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, criticizing their midday campaign suspension. High-stakes polling and voting are underway with BJP advocating for democracy against violence.

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy has claimed that both the Congress and National Conference have acknowledged their defeat ahead of the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. This remark came following the culmination of the campaign for the third and final phase of the elections.

Reddy criticized the parties for reportedly attempting to "fool the people" by concluding their campaigns at midday. He pointed out statements made by Omar Abdullah and Rahul Gandhi as indicators of their acceptance of defeat. Reddy also condemned both parties for their silence regarding attacks on Hindus and Bangladesh, reiterating the BJP's stance against violence and bloodshed.

Reddy emphasized the BJP's commitment to democracy and opposition to war, highlighting PM Modi's consistent advocacy for peace on international platforms like the UN. He also mentioned Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's brief unwellness during a rally in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that Kharge reassured the public of his recovery.

The high-stakes campaign for the third and final phase of polling in the Jammu and Kashmir elections concluded with voting scheduled for October 1 and results to be announced on October 8. The first election since the abrogation of Article 370, it sees a multi-cornered contest for 90 seats.

The National Conference and Congress are in alliance, while the People's Democratic Party and BJP are other significant contestants. Kharge's brief health scare during a rally in Kathua district also marked the campaign period.

Voter turnouts of 61% and 57.31% were recorded in the first and second phases respectively, indicating a keen public interest in the outcome of this pivotal election.

(With inputs from agencies.)