BJP Asserts Independence in J&K Polls amid Voter Surge

Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasized BJP's independence in Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, rejecting any alliance offers. This comes as voter's enthusiasm marked the first phase with a significant turnout. Campaigns intensify as parties vie for dominance in the first polls post-Article 370 abrogation.

Amid ongoing assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Jitendra Singh asserted that his party does not require assistance from other political entities in the Union Territory. While campaigning in Budhal assembly constituency on Friday, Singh stated, "We fought the election alone. We don't want any help from others."

This declaration followed BJP leader Devender Singh Rana's remarks suggesting that National Conference (NC) leader Farooq Abdullah always sought to align with the central government. "He (Omar Abdullah) was interim CM and didn't want to leave power. He wanted NC to be in power in one way or the other. Farooq Abdullah was abroad and he asked him to go and talk to the BJP and stay in Government somehow," commented Rana during a press conference in Jammu on Tuesday, September 3.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh was rallying in Budhal for party candidate Choudhary Zulfkar Ali. Singh noted that although BJP didn't have an MLA from the Budhal constituency previously, the government had executed various developments and welfare schemes in the region.

The assembly elections witnessed a 61.13 percent voter turnout in the first phase, covering 24 constituencies across seven districts on September 18. Kishtwar district led with an 80.14 percent turnout followed by Ramban at 70.55 percent, Doda at 71.34 percent, Kulgam at 62.60 percent, Anantnag at 57.84 percent, and Shopian at 55.96 percent.

Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing a dynamic political contest with several parties and independent candidates contesting. The NCP and Congress have established a pre-poll alliance in the Union Territory, although engaging in friendly contests in some seats. This election marks the first in J&K following the abrogation of Article 370, prompting intensive campaigns by leaders aiming to enhance their party's candidates' prospects.

The subsequent phases of voting in J&K are scheduled for September 25 and October 1, with the vote count taking place on October 8. (ANI)