Politics

Politics

Political Parties Are Competitors Not Enemies: DPAP chief Ghulam Nabi Azad

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Ghulam Nabi Azad

Ahead of the second and third phases of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Democratic Progressive Azad Party Chief Ghulam Nabi Azad called leaders of political parties his competitors, adding that he does not consider them enemies.

“The political parties are not my enemies; they are our competitors. Like in class, we are all good friends but there is a competition…So I take every political party and leader as my competitor,” Democratic Progressive Azad Party Chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad said while doing a roadshow in Ganderbal in view of the Assembly elections in Union Territory.

Speaking to media persons, he further said, “When I made the party (DPAP) and had my first party meeting, I said that I fought bravely for Article 370 and statehood…Nobody in the Parliament knew until I said that Article 35A was a pre independence thing…”

Jammu and Kashmir is voting for its 90-member assembly in three phases. The first phase of voting took place on September 18.

Notably, a voter turnout of 61.13 pc was registered in the first phase of polling in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls, which were held in 24 constituencies in seven districts on September 18.

Earlier, Farooq Abdullah referenced Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad’s remarks in the Rajya Sabha, which compared Jammu and Kashmir’s development to that of Gujarat, emphasizing that significant progress was made while Article 370 was in effect.

“When Ghulam Nabi Azad compared two states in the Rajya Sabha the numbers showed that J&K was much above Gujarat…The governments here did it and they did it when Article 370 was in effect. We made progress. But what development did they give us in these years? Were prices reduced, and unemployment reduced?…Don’t wait till the last bullet is off. Take the bull by the horns. I want to ask the Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Did they remove terrorism?” Abdullah said.

Voting for the second and third phases in J-K will be held on September 25 and October 1, respectively. Votes will be counted on October 8. (ANI)

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Indian Soldiers were being killed under “coward Congress government” : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav

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Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav lashed out at the Congress party, saying that Indian soldiers were being killed under their “coward” regime, while saying that today India responds to terror attacks with ‘full strength’.

He was addressing a public rally in Samba, Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday.

“Enemies were killing our soldiers under the rule of the coward Congress government. Our soldiers were attacked, but Congress used to refrain from ordering an attack on enemies. Our soldiers used to tell Delhi that they were capable of dealing with them, but still, the Congress did not give them orders to attack back. We can now answer our enemies well,” Yadav said.

He also hailed the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government for bringing 20,000 Indian students who were stranded in Ukraine during the war with Russia.

“20,000 Indian students were stranded abroad because of the Russia-Ukraine war. Under the leadership of PM Modi, not just Indian students but Pakistani students reached their homes. The PM called top leaders and got the war called off so that the students could come safely,” he added.

Further, while speaking to ANI, the Madhya Pradesh CM exuded confidence that BJP will form government in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Elections are going on, I have come to campaign in Samba. The way our party is campaigning, we will definitely win. Based on the work done by PM Modi and the impact it has on people, we can say that the BJP will form the government in Jammu and Kashmir,” he further said.

The elections for the 90 seats of Jammu and Kashmir assembly are being held in three phases. The first phase of voting took place on September 18 with a voter turnout of 61.13 pc.

Voting for the second and third phases in Jammu & Kashmir will be held on September 25 and October 1, respectively. Votes will be counted on October 8.

Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing an interesting contest with several political parties and independents in the fray. NCP and Congress have forged a pre-poll alliance in the UT.

These are the first elections since the abrogation of Article 370, and are being held after nearly a decade in the Union Territory. (ANI)

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In Jammu & Kashmir on Sept 23 Rahul Gandhi to Address Two Rallies in support of Congress candidates for the upcoming assembly election

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Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi will visit Jammu and Kashmir on September 23 to address election rallies in support of Congress candidates for the upcoming assembly election.

Congress sources told that Rahul Gandhi will address a rally in Surankote area of Poonch, followed by a rally in central Shalteng constituency of Srinagar.

“In Surankote he will seek votes for Congress-NC alliance candidate Shahnawaz Choudhary. In Srinagar, he will seek support for JKPCC president Tariq Hameed Karra,” said a Congress leader.

So far Gandhi has addressed three rallies in Jammu and Kashmir which include a rally in support of former PCC president Vikar Rasool Wani at Sangaldan and two rallies in support of AICC general secretary Ghulam Ahmed Mir in Dooru constituency of south Kashmir.

The last date for campaigning for second phase of Assembly election is September 23, in which Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu region and Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal districts of Kashmir region will vote—(KNO)

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Mehbooba Mufti Blames NC of implementing BJP’s Agenda in J&K

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mehbooba

The Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Friday said that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should be thankful to Sheikh family for implementing their agenda in Jammu and Kashmir.

“The BJP should thank the Sheikh family for destroying Jammu and Kashmir. The NC implemented BJP’s agenda in J&K,” Mehbooba told reporters.She said when Omar Abdullah was in power with BJP as foreign minister, he would roam around the world negating the Kashmir issue.

Recalling her father Late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s coalition with BJP, Mehbooba said we formed government with them after they waited at our doors for three months.

Mehbooba highlighted the conditions set by her party, including not tampering with special status of Jammu & Kashmir under Article 370, opening more roads and initiating dialogue with Pakistan and Hurriyat.

She slammed BJP for its failure in fulfilling promises, including job creation. “The BJP said they would create 2 crore jobs every year, but after lynching Muslims and demolishing mosques, they are now remembering Pakistan,” she said.

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BJP Spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari challenged Congress to explain its position on Article 370

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Pradeep Bhandari

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party on Thursday. His comments followed BJP President JP Nadda’s letter and a statement by Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, who claimed that the Congress party and the National Conference are aligned with Pakistan’s interests regarding the restoration of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

Bhandari accused the Congress of failure to address numerous insults directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and of displaying double standards and anti-national behaviour.

Speaking to ANI, Bhandari said, “Whatever JP Nadda has written is what the people of the country are also saying: Rahul Gandhi is a failed product.” He argued that the Congress party has repeatedly abused PM Modi without condemnation. “The country knows that Congress has abused PM Modi many times… But did Congress condemn all this?”

He highlighted past incidents where Congress leaders used derogatory language against Modi, including the term “maut ke saudagar” used by Sonia Gandhi, and criticised the party for justifying rather than condemning such remarks.

Bhandari added, “Rahul Gandhi was talking about inciting violence against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from a public forum, saying he would be beaten with a stick, a ‘Gutter-Ka-Keera’ (dirty drain worm) would be cut into pieces.”

Bhandari also questioned Congress’s stance on nationalism and its ties with anti-national elements. He said, “Today, it has been established from Nadda ji’s letter that the product the Congress party is trying to launch has failed in 2014, 2019, failed in 2024, and will fail in 2029 as well.”

Furthermore, Bhandari condemned Congress for allegedly aligning with Pakistan’s interests. He referred to comments by Pakistan’s Defense Minister about Congress’s position on Article 370 and accused the party of collaborating with Pakistan. “When Article 370 was in force, Pakistan used to spread terror in Jammu and Kashmir.

Today, it is clear that Pakistan is using Congress and the National Conference as a front,” Bhandari said.

He also challenged Congress to explain its position on Article 370 and its perceived alignment with Pakistan, adding, “Congress party and the National Conference want Jammu and Kashmir to go back to the dark days when separatism was the norm.”(ANI)

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People want to change and this Election Process is to Reclaim whatever we have lost: Waheed Para

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People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate from Pulwama Assembly constituency Waheed Para said that people want to change and this election process is to “reclaim whatever we have lost.”Para alleged that Pulwama has been stigmatised and expressed his hope in a possible change.

“Pulwama has been stigmatized. This is an election for us to reclaim the image of Pulwama, the youth of Pulwama, and the people of Pulwama and we are optimistic. We want people to come out in this election and vote for peace, progress, development and dignity of J&K. Voting is an act of self-preservance for all of us. People have lost so much in the last 6-7 years. So people want to change and this voting is to reclaim whatever we have lost,” Waheed Para said.

The polling stations in Pulwama witnessed long queues since morning.PDP spokesperson Mohit Ban said that queues formed during the polls are the testimony of the decisions that Delhi took on August 5, 2019, and the way they have been inhumane to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

“The queues formed during the polls are the testimony of the decisions that Delhi took on August 5, 2019, and the way they were inhumane to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Once these queues end and the results are out on October 8, you will see the verdict of the people is against the decision of 5th August 2019,” Bhan said.

Polling for the first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections began at 7 am today amid tight security arrangements. The voting will conclude at 6 pm. Long queue of voters were seen at polling stations from the morning.

In the first-phase, 24 assembly constituencies across the Union Territory are voting today, that includes 16 seats in the Kashmir region and 8 seats in the Jammu region.Voting for the second and third phase in J-K will be held on September 25 and October 1, respectively. Vote counting will be held on October 8. (ANI)

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Ghulam Qadir Wani Head of Jamaat-e-Islami Votes in Pulwama, Advocates for Democratic Solutions

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Ghulam Qadir Wani, the panel head of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami, cast his vote on Wednesday at a polling station in Gusoo village, Pulwama district.

In a conversation with Rising Kashmir, Wani stressed that democratic processes are crucial for resolving all issues.“Democracy is the only way to achieve lasting solutions,” he said, urging voters to cast their ballots wisely.

He especially appealed to the youth, encouraging them to hold their chosen candidates accountable for their promises.Wani emphasised that the primary aim of participating in the elections is to ensure political stability, eradicate corruption, and combat drug abuse in society.

He expressed optimism that the elections will be transparent like the previously held parliamentary elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

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J&K Election Update: Polling parties along-with Poll Material Dispatched to polling stations

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The distribution of election related materials and induction of polling teams across all 07 Assembly Constituencies (ACs) was completed today in Anantnag.Under the overall guidance of District Election Officer (DEO) Anantnag, SF. Hamid, the entire process has been conducted smoothly and in strict adherence to the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) guidelines.

A total of 837 polling teams, comprising Presiding Officers, Polling Officers, and security personnel, have been deployed to their respective polling stations across all 07 Assembly Constituencies.

Essential polling materials, including Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) devices, ballot papers, indelible ink, and other necessary stationery items, were distributed to the polling teams in a seamless and organized manner.

Adequate security arrangements have been made to ensure smooth and secure voting. Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and local police have been deployed to maintain law and order, safeguard polling stations, and assist polling teams.

The district election office has ensured that all polling teams are provided with appropriate transport facilities to reach even the most remote polling locations on time.The District Election Officer has appealed to all eligible voters to participate actively in the democratic process by casting their votes on poll day.

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Engineer Rashid filing case Against Sajad Lone for False Accusations Very Soon

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Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid on Monday said that he will file case against Sajad Gani Lone for false accusations against me for being out of jail much before the actual court release date.

He was reacting to the accusations of Sajad Gani Lone that Engineer Rashid was already out of Jail for almost two months before his ‘publicised” court release.” I will file case against Sajad Lone for false accusations,” he told reporters.

Rashid said that he has been suffering from five and half years in Jail and bore the brunt of speaking truth.” Those who enjoyed life here and have been with RSS are accusing me of being agent of Central Government, ” he told reporters. (KNS).

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The political alliance of Jamaat-e-Islami and Awami Ittehad Party before the elections created fear among the opponents

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In a dramatic turn of events in the lead-up to the upcoming elections, the political alliance between the Jamaat-e-Islami (JEI) and the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has stirred considerable apprehension among their political opponents. This unexpected coalition has been viewed as a formidable challenge to established political entities, altering the dynamics of the electoral landscape.

The Jamaat-e-Islami, despite its ban and controversial history, remains a significant force in regional politics, known for its strong ideological influence and substantial support base. The Awami Ittehad Party, while smaller, has carved out a niche with its grassroots connections and focus on local issues. Their union represents a strategic consolidation of resources and influence, aimed at maximising their impact in the forthcoming elections.

For opponents, the alliance is a cause for concern for several reasons. First, the combined electoral strength of JEI and AIP presents a substantial challenge to the traditional political parties such as the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Both these established parties are now facing a united front that could potentially split the vote and weaken their individual chances of securing seats.

Additionally, the alliance has generated unease due to the potential mobilisation of a broad-based support network. The Jamaat-e-Islami’s ability to galvanise a significant voter base, combined with the AIP’s local reach, could lead to a strong, coordinated campaign that might overshadow the efforts of their rivals.

Political analysts are noting the strategic implications of this alliance. The collaboration between JEI and AIP is seen as a move to counterbalance the political clout of larger parties and to challenge their dominance in the region. The fear among opponents is compounded by the possibility that this alliance could forge new coalitions and support networks, further complicating the electoral calculus.

The alliance has also raised questions about the future political landscape. If successful, it could signal a shift in power dynamics, with potential long-term impacts on policy-making and governance. The fear among opponents is not just about immediate electoral outcomes but also about the possible reconfiguration of political alliances and power structures in the region.

In response to the growing concerns, JEI and AIP have been emphasising their commitment to addressing local issues and representing the interests of their constituencies. They have framed their alliance as a strategic move to bring about change and provide a viable alternative to the traditional political parties.

As the election date approaches, the political atmosphere remains charged with uncertainty. The alliance between the Jamaat-e-Islami and the Awami Ittehad Party has undoubtedly added a new dimension to the electoral contest, and its impact on the outcome will be closely watched by all stakeholders involved.

The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) and former members of the banned Jama’at-e-Islami (JeI) have come together in a strategic alliance to “champion the cause of the people of Jammu and Kashmir”.

In a joint meeting held today, the AIP delegation was led by AIP chief and Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid, AIP chief spokesman Inam-un-Nabi while the banned JeI delegation was led by Ghulam Qadir Wani.

“Prominent former JeI members were also present in the discussions,” an AIP spokesman said He said that at the core of the meeting was the current political situation in J&K, with both sides emphasising the need to work together in the larger interest of the region’s population.

“Following comprehensive deliberations, it was agreed that AIP will support banned JeI-backed candidates in Kulgam and Pulwama, and similarly the JeI-backed candidates will throw their support behind AIP candidates across Kashmir,” the spokesman said.

He said that in areas where both AIP and banned JeI have fielded candidates, the alliance has agreed to a “friendly contest,” particularly in constituencies like Langate, Devsar, and Zainapora.“In other constituencies, mutual support would be extended to ensure a unified approach to the elections,” the AIP spokesman said.

He said that both parties underscored the importance of unity in resolving the Kashmir issue and promoting a lasting and dignified peace in the region.The spokesman said that they highlighted the rapidly evolving political landscape, both regionally and internationally, and stressed that neither the banned JeI nor AIP can afford to remain passive observers.He said that the leadership of both AIP and members of banned JeI called upon their cadres to spread the message of support for each other’s candidates, in line with the agreement.

The spokesman said that the goal was to secure a resounding victory for AIP and ex-JeI candidates, ensuring that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have strong representatives who can articulate their sentiments and aspirations.“This collaboration marks a significant step towards achieving a united front in the pursuit of peace, justice, and political empowerment for the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.