On Sunday, Union Minister Giriraj Singh launched a sharp critique of the Congress, National Conference (NC), and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), accusing them of exploiting the people of Jammu and Kashmir for decades. Addressing reporters, Singh claimed that these parties, led by prominent figures such as Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, have manipulated the region’s inhabitants for their own political gain.
Singh remarked, “The Prime Minister said that he will conduct the elections. So, he is doing that. The announcement of the elections has been made democratically… The nepotistic parties and leaders like Congress, Farooq Abdullah, and Mehbooba Mufti have exploited the people of J-K.”
He underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dedication to establishing a democratic framework in Jammu and Kashmir. Singh highlighted that under Modi’s leadership, elections were previously conducted at the panchayat level, and now the Vidhan Sabha elections are imminent. “PM Narendra Modi established democracy by conducting elections of panchayats, and now Vidhan Sabha elections are going to be held,” Singh noted.
The Election Commission of India has scheduled the polling in Jammu and Kashmir to occur in three phases on September 18, September 25, and October 1, with the counting of votes slated for October 8. This process represents a significant step toward reinstating electoral democracy in the region.
This announcement comes amid increased political activity in Jammu and Kashmir, as various parties prepare for the forthcoming elections, which are anticipated to be a crucial gauge of public sentiment in the Union Territory.