National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah has voiced strong criticism against the BJP’s approach to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Kashmir. Abdullah highlighted the significant shift since August 2019, noting that this marks the first Lok Sabha elections in the region following that pivotal period.
Omar Abdullah stated, “After August 2019, this is the first time that the Lok Sabha elections are taking place here. Then, the BJP launched their candidates on all seats in Kashmir. Now, the Home Minister is saying that first, they will win people’s hearts and then fight the elections… This means that they could not win hearts…”
#WATCH | Srinagar, J&K: National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah says, "After August 2019, this is the first time that the Lok Sabha elections are taking place here. Then, the BJP launched their candidates on all seats in Kashmir. Now, the Home Miniter is saying that… pic.twitter.com/QhJk6WV4UW
— ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024
Abdullah pointed out the BJP’s decision to field candidates in all constituencies in Kashmir, indicating a clear intent to contest aggressively. However, he raised concerns over the recent statement by the Home Minister, suggesting a change in strategy towards winning hearts before entering electoral battles.
The former Chief Minister interpreted this as an admission of failure to garner support organically, implying that the BJP’s previous efforts to win over the people of Kashmir have fallen short. Abdullah’s remarks underscore a growing skepticism regarding the BJP’s tactics in the region, suggesting a need for deeper engagement and genuine efforts to address local concerns.
As Kashmir braces for its first post-2019 Lok Sabha elections, Abdullah’s critique sheds light on the evolving political landscape in the region and the challenges ahead for the BJP in securing electoral support.