BJP to Oppose and Monitor Development in Jammu Post Polls

In the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, the BJP secured 29 seats, promising to act as an effective opposition ensuring governmental accountability and development in Jammu. Despite BJP's stronghold, the National Conference-Congress alliance gained power. BJP criticizes Congress for regional discrimination and reiterates commitment to restoring statehood.

Following a strong display in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, where the BJP secured 29 seats, former deputy chief minister and BJP leader Kavinder Gupta affirmed the party's intention to serve as a vigilant opposition. Gupta emphasized that the BJP will ensure effective government functioning, especially concerning development in Jammu.

Gupta criticized previous Kashmir governments for alleged discrimination against Jammu and expressed commitment to protecting the region's interests. He took a swipe at the Congress, highlighting its poor performance in Jammu, where it won just one seat, attributing the loss to longstanding public mistrust.

Gupta reiterated assurances from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah about restoring statehood at an appropriate time. He linked Article 370 to issues like terrorism and corruption and urged any future government in J&K to prevent such issues, with the central government playing a significant role in regional security.

The National Conference-Congress alliance, however, managed to secure a clear majority by winning 48 seats out of 90. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah expressed gratitude to voters for their deliberate support, particularly in areas prone to vote-splitting tactics. He stressed the alliance's readiness to begin fulfilling the mandate given by the electorate.

Abdullah, poised to be the next Chief Minister, emphasized that the election marked a significant return to democratic processes in the region post-Article 370 abrogation. The National Conference won 42 seats, while Congress captured six, outshining the BJP despite its considerable vote share.

(With inputs from agencies.)