Narendera Modi Forgets “Kaam ki baat” No one is listening his“Mun Ki Baat”: Rahul Gandhi

Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi today took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendera Modi for talking about “man ki baat” and forgetting the “kaam ki baat” stating that J&K was not only downgraded to a UT but “this place is now ruled by outsiders against the wishes of people.”

Addressing a massive rally in the Central –Shalteng constituency of Srinagar, Rahul Gandhi  said that J&K has not only been reduced to a UT from being a State but it has been ruled by the “outsiders directly.” “The Lieutenant Governor is Raja who is working against the wishes of people here. He doesn’t know how to work,” Rahul said.

He took a dig at PM Modi for talking high in his “Man ki baat” but forgetting the “Kaam ki baat. ” “Kaam Ki baat means to address the unemployment and to restore Statehood in J&K,” Rahul said, adding that the fact is nobody listens to man ki baat of PM Modi now.

He said before Lok Sabha polls, it was stated that Modi has a 56 inch chest. Earlier, he would speak with chest spread but INDIA alliance managed to break Modi’s psychology. Modi’s confidence is lost. He is the Modi of earlier days,” Rahul said.

“I see him very closely in the Lok Sabha while people see him on TV. His mood has changed and his face has changed. Credit goes to INDIA alliance for this,” he said.

He said BJP leaders spread hatred and pitched brother against brother. “They have spread hatred across the country. Hatred is not dealt with Hatred but with love,” Rahul said.

From Kanyakumari to Kashmir, Rahul said, he walked 4000 kms. “Wherever BJP had opened the shops of hatred, we closed them and opened the shops of love. We will continue to do the same,” he said as per KNO

He said this is for the first time that J&K as a state was downgraded to a UT. “We had seen UTs being converted into States. “We want Statehood to be restored as soon as possible so that J&K becomes a State again,” he said. “We wanted this to happen before elections but BJP didn’t.”

He said Congress will build pressure on BJP to restore the Statehood post polls. “If they don’t do it. I guarantee you that we will do it as it is your democratic right,” said Rahul.—(KNO)

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

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)

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

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.

Only BJP can Restore Statehood To Jammu & Kashmir: Amit Shah

Home Minister Amit Shah

Union Home Minister and BJP leader, Amit Shah Saturday questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and JKNC vice president Omar Abdullah over their claims of restoring statehood to J&K after they get to power in the upcoming Assembly elections in the region.

He said that he had promised on the floor of the parliament that J&K’s statehood will be restored at an “appropriate time.”Addressing a big gathering in Jammu, Shah said that JKNC’s manifesto advocates for talks with Pakistan, so “let me make it clear that there will be no talks with Pakistan until J&K becomes peaceful forever.”

While defending the central government’s move to provide reservation for Gujjar-Bakerwal and Dalit communities, Shah said that “no power can touch this reservation,” news agency KNO reported him saying.

Taking a jibe at the NC-Congress for claiming they will bring back the statehood to J&K, Shah said, “Perhaps, Rahul baba and Omar are unaware of my August 5, 2019 speech where I have clarified that statehood will be restored to J&K post polls at an appropriate time,” he said.

Shah questioned Rahul and Omar, saying “I wonder how they can bring back statehood. Can they clarify? It is the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government that can give back the statehood to J&K.”

Asking the BJP workers to come along with four families early morning and finish voting by 11:30 am. Shah asked the workers to take a pledge that they will vote against Abdullahs, Muftis and Gandhis. He also raised the slogan: “Jahan Huway Balidan Mukherji, Wo Kashmiri Hamara hai.”

Lashing out at PDP for advocating cross LoC trade, Shah claimed that the profit earned out the trade would directly go into the pockets of “terror mentors.”

Sarjan Barkati Challenging Omar Abdullah Ganderbal for Elections After Nomination Rejection in Zanipora Shopian

After the Election Commission of India (ECI) rejected Sarjan Ahmad Wagay’s nomination from Zainapora in south Kashmir due to an incomplete application, the jailed cleric and separatist leader, known as Sarjan Barkati, is set to refile his nomination. Reports indicate that Barkati will now contest the Ganderbal Assembly seat in central Kashmir, challenging former Chief Minister and JKNC vice-president Omar Abdullah.

Barkati’s nephew, Rehbar Ahmad, confirmed to The Indian Express that Barkati will contest from Ganderbal, a constituency historically dominated by the Abdullah family. Omar Abdullah, who won the seat in 2008, is again running for the same position.

Barkati’s initial nomination papers were rejected on August 28 because he failed to provide a complete signed oath certificate in time. While his family initially planned to challenge the decision in court, they have now opted for Barkati to contest from Ganderbal.

The decision to enter the elections has surprised many in Kashmir. Barkati’s daughter, Sugra Barkati, had previously filed his nomination papers and campaigned for her father’s release, hoping that a successful election might lead to his bail.

Previously affiliated with Ummat-e-Islami, Barkati was arrested by the State Investigation Agency (SIA) in August 2023 over alleged fundraising activities linked to money laundering and radicalism. He had gained prominence through his leadership in protest rallies following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in 2016. Barkati was arrested under the Public Safety Act (PSA) in 2016, released two years later, and re-arrested in August 2023.

BJP’s Ram Madhav Accuses JKNC, PDP of Using Ex-Militants in Elections; Promises New Leadership for J&K

On Wednesday, BJP leader Ram Madhav accused the oldest political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, JKNC and PDP, of employing former militants as candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections.

Addressing the media in Srinagar’s Khanmo area, where he was supporting a BJP leader during the nomination process, Madhav described this election as “historic,” marking a significant shift after a prolonged hiatus. He expressed hope that the long-standing parties responsible for the region’s hardships over the past three decades would face defeat and disgrace. Madhav emphasized that voters are expected to back new parties and leaders who prioritize peace and development.

“Our party is poised to form a strong government with substantial support,” Madhav asserted. He also highlighted the enthusiastic participation of J&K’s youth in the electoral process, which he believes will help liberate the region from entrenched dynastic politicians.

Regarding the unusual candidates entering the fray, Madhav stated that while all are welcome to run, militants and ex-militants are not permitted.

Ram Madhav, a key strategist for the Modi-led BJP, played a crucial role in securing the party’s victory in J&K in 2014. Recent reports suggest that Madhav has been entrusted once again with ensuring BJP’s success in the upcoming elections.

Congress District President (Ganderbal), Sahil Farooq threatenes to stand as an independent candidate against Omar Abdullah

 In an unexpected turn of events, the Congress district president of J&K’s Ganderbal district on Tuesday threatened to fight as an Independent candidate against National Conference (NC) vice president Omar Abdullah if denied candidature by the party.

Omar Abdullah is fighting the Assembly elections from the Ganderbal Assembly constituency while Gujjar leader, Mian Meher Ali is fighting the election as the NC candidate from the Kangan (ST) constituency of the district.Both Kangan and Ganderbal are two Assembly constituencies in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district

As per the pre-poll alliance, the NC will fight from 52 seats and Congress from 31 seats in the J&K Assembly elections.

On Tuesday, Congress district president (Ganderbal), Sahil Farooq threatened to stand as an independent candidate against Omar Abdullah if the Congress doesn’t give him the party mandate.

“If we can fight a friendly contest on five seats, why not in Ganderbal as well? I am willing to contest the upcoming Assembly elections under the party’s banner if a friendly contest between the Congress and NC is permitted in the Ganderbal constituency similar to the arrangements in other constituencies,” Sahil Farooq said.

He, however, added that if his party does not allow such a contest, he will consider running as an independent candidate, though he will remain a loyal Congress worker.

He has expressed dismay over what he calls ‘continuous neglect’ of local leaders in Ganderbal.

“I am loyal to the party, but the people of Ganderbal are facing hardships,” he said.

Farooq alleged that Ganderbal has always been kept out of the decision-making process with outsiders often being imposed on the constituency.

“Why is Ganderbal always forced to accept outsiders? Our local leaders have never been given a fair chance. If the Congress leadership does not make a decision by this evening, I will proceed to contest independently, but my commitment to the Congress party will remain unchanged. I am doing this for my downtrodden people.”

He wanted the Congress leadership to give him a chance to represent Ganderbal in a friendly contest.

If he finally chooses to stand as an independent candidate against Omar Abdullah, that decision could affect the dynamics of the electoral alliance between the NC and the Congress.

Mehar Ali files Nomination Papers from Kangan Assembly Segment

Mehar Ali, the son of National Conference senior leader and Member Parliament Mian Altaf, Monday filed his nomination papers from Kangan Assembly while as NC vice president Omar Abdullah stated he was confident of Mehar’s victory given the fact his the family’s fourth generation taking part in polls.

“In Mehar Ali, it will be the Mian family’s fourth generation taking part in elections from Kangan. I am sure he will follow his ancestors and father in serving the people. He will carry forward the legacy,” said Omar while accompanying Mehar to the office of Returning Officer where he filed his nomination papers.

Omar Abdullah said that he was confident of Mehar’s victory. Speaking to reporters, about Ram Madhav’s silent visits to J&K, he said Madhav has been close to PDP only and seems he is still in touch with the party. “He was the man behind stitching the PDP-BJP alliance in 2015,” he said.

About the increasing number of liquor shops in Kashmir, Omar said NC will look into the “rampant openings of liquor shops in Kashmir” post elections. “Let elections complete,” he said—(KNO)

Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University Unveils Its First Strategic Plan

In a landmark event for Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Prof. Akbar Masood, the Vice Chancellor, proudly released the university’s inaugural strategic plan. This pivotal document is designed to steer the institution towards enhanced operational efficiency, informed decision-making, and overall progress.

Strategic Plan as a Guiding Light

During the unveiling ceremony, Prof. Akbar Masood emphasized the significance of the Strategic Plan, describing it as a crucial instrument for guiding the university. He highlighted that this plan is not merely a collection of goals but a comprehensive framework intended to illuminate the path forward for the institution. It will serve as a reference point for aligning various university activities with its long-term objectives.

The strategic plan is crafted to address several key areas:

  • Operational Efficiency: By providing a clear roadmap, the plan aims to streamline processes and optimize resource utilization across the university.
  • Decision-Making: It is designed to assist university leadership in navigating competing priorities and making informed choices that align with the institution’s vision and mission.
  • Progress and Prosperity: The ultimate goal is to chart a course that fosters growth, innovation, and success, setting the stage for the university to thrive in the competitive educational landscape.

Key Attendees and Support

The strategic plan’s release was attended by several notable figures from within the university community. Dr. A.A. Shah, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, along with Associate Deans from various schools of study, and the Controller of Examination, were present at the ceremony. Their participation underscored the collaborative effort involved in developing the plan and their collective commitment to its successful implementation.

The presence of these key stakeholders reflects the plan’s broad impact across different facets of the university. Each department and office will play a role in executing the strategies outlined, ensuring that the entire institution moves cohesively towards the shared goals.

Future Outlook

The introduction of this strategic plan marks a significant milestone for BGSBU. It represents a proactive approach to navigating the challenges and opportunities of modern higher education. By setting clear objectives and establishing a framework for achieving them, the university is poised to enhance its academic and operational performance, thereby securing its place as a leading institution in the region.

As BGSBU embarks on this strategic journey, the university community and stakeholders will be keenly watching how effectively the plan is implemented and how it contributes to the institution’s growth and success in the coming years.

Yasir Reshi Joining Er Rashid’s Awami Itihad Party

Former MLC Yasir Reshi, who recently announced his departure from the Peoples Conference is set to join Er Rasheed led Awami Ithehad Party in Srinagar today.

Yasir Reshi confirmed that he will join the AIP today and the decision has been taken after consulting his supporters.“Talks are on with AIP, and I may join today or tomorrow,” Reshi said.

On August 27, he disassociated himself from the People’s Conference . Earlier, some reports suggested that Reshi may return People’s Democratic Party following his disassociation from the PC. Reshi had resigned from the PDP in 2021 and later joined the PC—(KNO)

Tahir Syeed Spokesperson of PDP Set to Leave the party

In a surprising turnout and set back to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the Spokesperson of the party, Tahir Syeed is all set to leave the party, citing dissatisfaction with the party decisions.

PDP’s spokesperson Tahir Syeed is all set to leave the party, ending his decade long affiliation with the People’s Democratic Party, lead by Mehbooba Mufti, the former CM of J&K.

The development came quickly after the party announced to field senior party worker Mohammad Afzal Wani as its candidate for the Trehgam constituency in Kupwara district, of which Syeed was hopeful of contender.

Syeed, also intended his quitting the party, thus ending a decade long terms with the PDP. However, he didn’t reveal details at the immediate.

It’s noteworthy, Syeed is not the only who is quitting the party, but there are several others who announced their resignation post party’s announcement of their candidates for the upcoming erections. The leaders include Bandipora’s zonal head besides several workers including Fayaz Ahmed Malik and Mehraj u Din Sheikh from Rafiabad belt—(KNO)

PDP was Willing to Allocate Seats to Jamaat-e-Islami, if Contacted: Waheed Ur Rehman Parra

Waheed Parra PDP

Peoples Democratic Party Youth President and Assembly Candidate for Pulwama Constituency Waheed Ur Rehman Parra on Sunday said that if Jamaat-e-Islami had approached the PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, She would have accommodated Jamaat-e-Islami candidates and given them tickets.

Parra emphasized that the PDP has always prioritized inclusive politics and engagement with diverse groups, regardless of their ideological affiliations, to ensure the broadest possible representation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

He emphasized that Mehbooba Mufti has always believed in dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusion. If Jamaat-e-Islami had reached out to PDP, we would have considered seat allocations to bring together all voices within the democratic framework. Even if it meant sacrificing many seats, we would have accommodated them.

Parra asserted that the PDP’s commitment is to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and we believe that every group, party and especially those representing significant sections of society, deserves a place at the table.

He added that the PDP’s approach has always been to bridge divides and ensure that all communities, irrespective of their backgrounds, have a say in shaping the future of the region. If Jamaat-e-Islami wants to contest elections, it is a positive development. Democracy is a battle of ideas. The government should lift the ban on it. We would have accommodated them and provided sufficient space, seats, and opportunities to contest.

Parra added that if our party comes to power, we will lift the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami. He reiterated that such an inclusive approach is essential for lasting peace, tranquility, prosperity, and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)

Hope Ganderbal will elect me again, Never taken any Election easy: Omar Abdullah

National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that he has never taken election easy, adding that he hope People of Ganderbal will elect him again.

Speaking to reporters here at Ganderbal Omar said that they are standing against the BJP with a united front and there was need to have alliance for Pir Panjal areas to keep BJP out.

According to KNS correspondent, On accusations that he has sacrificed his principles for power, Omar said that the people who are making such accusations are his own relatives.

“If they were bound by their own principles, then they should have stayed out of this as well”, he added.

He further said that while he believes the current assembly lacks the strength it should have, “we can only strengthen this assembly through this assembly.

Responding to a question that the Chief Minister cannot even transfer an MP, he said, “I will not go into that. But today, we are not electing a Chief Minister. We want to make him an MLA first, and then we will decide who will be the Chief Minister after October 4.”

Regarding concerns raised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) that Er Rashid could influence witnesses and tamper with evidence, he said, “A voter does not decide on a bail. Bail is decided in court.”

He added that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had similarly opposed the withdrawal of the case against Farooq Abdullah, but “the court decided, and the case was withdrawn.”

He also said the court will decide on September 4. “I think the NIA will fail their argument, just like the ED did.”(KNS)

Omar Abdullah Urges PDP to Refrain from Fielding Candidates Against NC-Congress Alliance

National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah accused the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of “imitating” their manifesto and asked the Mehbooba Mufti-led party to not field candidates against the NC.

Addressing the public in Ganderbal, Omar Abdullah said, “They (PDP) should’ve made a different manifesto, we spoke of 200 units of electricity, and they also did. We spoke of one lakh jobs, and they also did. We spoke about the reopening of blocked roads, which is also there in their manifesto.

We spoke of open dialogue, which is also there in their manifesto. Everything in the National Conference’s manifesto is present in their (PDP’s) manifesto also.”

Omar Abdullah also urged the PDP to not field candidates against the NC-Congress alliance. Abdullah’s remarks come after Mehbooba Mufti showed willingness to support the NC-Congress alliance provided they support PDP’s agenda.

Omar Abdullah said, “They (PDP) said that if NC and Congress agree with their manifesto, then they will not launch their candidates. Now that all of our agenda is in your manifesto, there is no difference between our agendas, then you should remove your candidates from the election.

Earlier Mehbooba Mufti said that if the Congress-NC alliance are ready to accept PDP’s agenda they are ready to support them.

“The people of Jammu and Kashmir have given an answer to the BJP government from the Lok Sabha polls that there are issues in Jammu and Kasmir and by removing Article 370, it has become more complicated.

Whenever we allied with any party we had a motive, an agenda, what we have to do. That’s why I said that if they (Congress) are ready to accept our agenda, we are ready to support them,” Mufti said.

NC’s manifesto envisaged the restoration of the political and legal status of the Union Territory and said that the party would strive to restore Article 370-35A and statehood before August 5, 2019.

NC Manifesto has also promised free electricity for upto 200 units, a comprehensive job package for youth, and to encourage dialogue between India and Pakistan.

PDP released its manifesto after NC and along the same lines. PDP also mentioned the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A and diplomatic initiatives between India and Pakistan and ensure the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley.

Polling in Jammu and Kashmir will be conducted in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, according to the Election Commission of India. The counting of votes will take place on October 4.

These are the first assembly elections to be held in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. (ANI)

Shiekh Ashiq likely contest Assembly Elections from Srinagar

Former Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Shiekh Ashiq is likely to contest Assembly Elections 2024 from Srinagar on AIP seat, sources on Sunday said.

Sources confirmed to Different News Agencies that Shiekh Ashiq will join active politics and talks are underway between Awami Ithehad Party led by Jailed MP Er. Rasheed.“Talks are going on between Engineer Rashid’s party and Sheikh Ashiq who is  prominent trade leader and former President of KCCI,” he said.

Sources further said in comming days, Shiekh Ashiq will join AIP in presence of senior leaders of the party. It will help AIP also for strong base in Srinagar city,” he said.

Finally Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir to Field Former Members as Independent Candidates in kashmir Assembly Elections

The Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir is set to field its former members as Independent candidates in several seats in the upcoming Assembly polls, The Indian Express has learnt.

Jamaat leaders had earlier said they are waiting for the Centre to lift the ban, in place under the UABASHAARAT MASOOPA since February 2019, with sources saying several rounds of talks had happened with the government. However, on Friday, the UAPA upheld the orders passed by the MHA declaring the Jamaat as an unlawful association under the Act.

Sources in the Jamaat said that following a meeting of its top body, it has been decided to field its former members as Independent candidates. “We have decided to field 10-12 members as Independents,” said a source from the organisation. “These will be in seats where we believe we have considerable support.”

In the first phase, the banned organisation is looking at around half a dozen seats, including Kulgam, Devsar, Bijbehara, Zainpora, Tral, Pulwama and Rajpora in south Kashmir.“We had a threadbare discussion on three options. The first was to form a front and fight under its banner; the second option was to be part of an alliance; and the third was to contest as Independents,” a source privy to the meeting said.

“While being part of any alliance was ruled out, the members were of the opinion that a front can’t be registered within a short time, and in any case such candidates will have to contest as Independents. So we went with the third option,” the source said, adding that those contesting will be former rukn or registered members of the Jamaat.

While the Jamaat has stayed away from the election since 1987, when they last participated under the banner of the Muslim United Front, it is eager to return to electoral politics to show its willingness to enter the mainstream.

“We are called a terror organisation, anti-democracy. We can’t contest elections as Jamaat members but we want to show that we believe in democracy, in the Constitution,” the source said.

“In the coming days, we will also take a decision on seats we will contest in the second and third phases.” A final call on candidates is awaited, sources said.

“We know we have very little time at hand, and by Sunday, we expect to come out with a list of candidates,” said the source. “We don’t know how state will react – whether they will accept the nomination or not.” (Indian Express)

Dr Mehboob Beg of PDP Filed Nomination Papers for 44-Anantnag Assembly constituency

As nomination process continues in Anantnag District, one candidate filed his nomination papers today for the 44-Anantnag Assembly constituency, here.

Dr Mehboob Beg from JKPDP submitted his nomination papers in the office of Returning Officer 44-Anantnag AC. This was the first nomination filed so far in the district Anantnag.

The district comprises of seven (07) Assembly Constituencies, nominations for which can be filed till 27th August, 2024.

J&K Party Workers Importan Meeting with Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge Today Ahead of Assembly election

Kharge and Rahul Gandhi

As the election commission of India announced the dates of the state assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir, Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi along with Congress Rajya Sabha MP Mallikarjun Kharge will be holding a meeting with the party workers of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday.

Security has been heightened outside the hotel where Rahul Gandhi and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge will be holding a meeting with party workers today.

Arshid Tantary a Congress youth leader said ” As you can see when Rahul Gandhi came to Srinagar yesterday, people were excited from the airport to the hotel. We have a worker’s meeting today. Around 500 workers are meeting him today. everyone wants to vote for the Congress”.

Asif Beigh Congress Youth Gen secretary of Jammu and Kashmir said on the occasion “We were with Rahul Gandhi toll 3 AM, then we started preparing for the event. we are filled with enthusiasm as our leader Rahul Gandhi is here. Rahul Gandhi will spread his ‘Mohabbat ka dukan’ in Jammu and Kashmir and will form ties with secular forces”.

Congress is likely to ally with the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference ahead of the polls. The two parties had contested the Lok Sabha polls in alliance.

On August 18, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) Vice President Omar Abdullah said that his party has started preparing for the Assembly elections.

“Give us some time, we have begun our preparations. On August 20, the notification will be issued for the first phase. Following this, we will announce the names of our candidates and hope for a victory.

It would be better if the BJP doesn’t talk about over-confidence. We only said that we were hoping to receive the support of the people and get a chance to form the government. We are not counting the number of seats. The BJP has always counted the number (seats) here,” Omar said.

Omar Abdullah also launched the Party manifesto that includes some huge promises like- restoration of Article 370, 35-A and statehood, redrawing the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 and return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits.

The first guarantee of the NC’s manifesto envisages the restoration of the political and legal status of the Union Territory and said that the party would strive to restore Article 370-35A and statehood prior to August 5, 2019.

The polling in the Union Territory will be held in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, as per the Election Commission of India. The counting of the votes will take place on October 4. These are the first elections to be held in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370.

The election body has directed the enforcement agencies to be impartial and transparent for smooth and fair polling, ensuring a level playing field.

There are a total of 90 assembly constituencies, of which 74 are general, nine are ST, and seven are SC. There are 87.09 lakh total electors, including 44.46 lakh are male, 42.62 lakh are female, 169 are transgender, 82,590 PwDs, 73943 are very senior citizens, 2660 are centenarians, 76092 are service electors, and 3.71 lakh are first-time voters.

Jammu and Kashmir will witness elections after a gap of ten years, as the last assembly election was held in 2014.

The PDP-BJP coalition government fell in June 2018 when the latter withdrew support to the then-Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti. In December of last year, the Supreme Court directed the Centre to conclude the election process by September 30, 2024. (ANI)

On August 21 and 22 Malik Arjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi is Visiting J&K

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi will visit Jammu and Srinagar for key meetings in preparation for the upcoming assembly elections, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal said on Tuesday.

“On 21st and 22nd August, Hon’ble Congress President Shri Mallikarjun @kharge ji and Leader of Opposition Shri @RahulGandhi ji will be visiting Jammu and Srinagar for key meetings in preparation for the upcoming assembly elections,” Venugopal said in a post on X.

Whether Congress and the JKNC will partner in the state elections remains to be seen. Both parties are constituents of the INDIA bloc and contested the Lok Sabha polls in an alliance.

On August 18, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) Vice President Omar Abdullah said that his party has started preparing for the Assembly elections.

“Give us some time, we have begun our preparations. On August 20, the notification will be issued for the first phase. Following this, we will announce the names of our candidates and hope for a victory.

It would be better if the BJP doesn’t talk about over-confidence. We only said that we were hoping to receive the support of the people and get a chance to form the government. We are not counting the number of seats. The BJP has always counted the number (seats) here,” Omar said.

Omar Abdullah also launched the Party manifesto that includes some huge promises like- restoration of Article 370, 35-A and statehood, redrawing the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 and return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits.

The first guarantee of the NC’s manifesto envisages the restoration of the political and legal status of the Union Territory and said that the party would strive to restore Article 370-35A and statehood prior to August 5, 2019.

The polling in the UT will be held in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, as per the Election Commission of India. The counting of the votes will take place on October 4. These are the first elections to be held in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370.

The election body has directed the enforcement agencies to be impartial and transparent for smooth and fair polling, ensuring a level playing field. There are a total of 90 assembly constituencies, of which 74 are general, nine are ST, and seven are SC.

There are 87.09 lakh total electors, including 44.46 lakh are male, 42.62 lakh are female, 169 are transgender, 82,590 PwDs, 73943 are very senior citizens, 2660 are centenarians, 76092 are service electors, and 3.71 lakh are first-time voters.

Jammu and Kashmir will witness elections after a gap of ten years, as the last assembly election was held in 2014. The PDP-BJP coalition government fell in June 2018 when the latter withdrew support to the then-Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti.

In December of last year, the Supreme Court directed the Centre to conclude the election process by September 30, 2024. (ANI)

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