J&K poll battle

AS Jammu and Kashmir approaches its first Assembly elections since the historic abrogation of Article 370, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a fierce attack on the region’s established political dynasties during a rally in Doda on Saturday. He targeted the Congress, National Conference (NC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing them of promoting family rule over the interests of the people. He claimed that dynastic politics had ‘hollowed out’ the region and hindered progress. He positioned the BJP as the only political force capable of uprooting entrenched interests, offering a new beginning with youth-driven leadership and a focus on development.

The upcoming elections signify a watershed moment for Jammu and Kashmir. With Article 370 read down, the BJP seeks to establish itself as the dominant force in the region by presenting voters with a vision for peace, stability and economic growth. Modi underscored that only the BJP could bring in meaningful change, addressing the high unemployment rate and drawing investments to a region long stifled by political instability. His statement that ‘terrorism is breathing its last’ highlights the BJP’s emphasis on security, a critical concern for the region’s populace, worn down by decades of militancy.

However, the electoral outcome is far from predictable. The Congress and regional parties like the NC and PDP have vowed to restore J&K’s special status, which was stripped with the revocation of Article 370. The Congress has pledged to reinstate full statehood, while the NC and the PDP focus on preserving the region’s identity and democratic rights. Their alliance seeks to counter the BJP’s narrative of development, positioning themselves as defenders of regional autonomy, capitalising on local discontent with Central policies. Ultimately, the elections will determine whether voters embrace Modi’s vision of a ‘terror-free, prosperous’ J&K or remain loyal to regional powers.