J&K BJP sends probable candidates list, eyes strategic moves for upcoming elections

In a bid to fortify its position ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit in Jammu and Kashmir has submitted a list of potential candidates for key constituencies, while keeping its options open for others.

For the Jammu-Reasi and Udhampur-Kathua seats, the BJP has presented a roster of contenders, including prominent figures from the region. In the fray for the Jammu-Reasi constituency are incumbent MP Jugal Kishore, BJP J&K President Ravinder Raina, former state president Sat Sharma, among others. Similarly, for the Udhampur-Kathua seat, the lineup includes sitting MP Dr Jitendra Singh, former Deputy CM Dr Nirmal Singh, and other notable party members.

Amid preparations, BJP’s J&K President Ravinder Raina and General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul have departed for New Delhi to participate in a crucial meeting with the party high command. Discussions in the meeting are expected to revolve around finalizing the candidates for the forthcoming polls. “We are optimistic that decisions will be made before PM Modi’s anticipated visit to Jammu and Kashmir next month,” stated a party representative.

However, the party remains tight-lipped regarding the constituencies in the Kashmir Valley, indicating a strategic approach. Sources suggest that BJP might introduce surprise candidates, particularly in Rajouri-Anantnag, leveraging the recently granted Scheduled Tribe status to the Pahari Community. In the Kashmir Valley, potential alliances could be forged to challenge the stronghold of the NC-PDP-Congress trio, with BJP considering a tactical move to field weaker candidates to disrupt opposition dominance.

As the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve, BJP’s strategic maneuvers hint at a calculated bid to consolidate its foothold and influence the electoral dynamics in the region.