Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Assembly Elections 2024: Amit Shah To Release BJP Manifesto On September 6

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set for a two-day visit to Jammu starting September 6. During his stay, he will unveil the BJP manifesto and address political rallies, according to sources on Wednesday. His visit aims to boost morale among candidates and party workers. Shah is also expected to visit Kashmir in mid-September.

The BJP is pulling out all stops to counter a resurgent Congress, which has allied with the National Conference (NC), particularly in the Jammu region, a BJP stronghold since 2014. The upcoming elections are crucial as they will be the first since Article 370 was abrogated and Jammu and Kashmir were reorganised into two Union Territories in 2019.

Assembly Elections Schedule

Jammu and Kashmir will hold Assembly Elections on September 18, 25, and October 1. The election results will be announced on October 8. This election marks the shortest Assembly election period in at least 28 years, with previous elections spanning multiple phases.

The Assembly consists of 90 seats, with 87.09 lakh voters participating across various constituencies. The first phase will cover 24 constituencies, the second phase will include 26 constituencies such as Rajouri and Reasi, and the final phase will encompass 40 constituencies.

BJP's Strategy

In the last assembly elections in 2014, the BJP secured 25 seats. This time around, they are making significant efforts to fend off challenges from Congress and its ally NC. The party believes that Shah's presence will energise both candidates and party workers during this critical period.

Arrangements for Shah's visit are being finalised meticulously. Party insiders believe his presence could serve as a significant morale booster for both candidates and party workers alike.

Historical Context

This election is particularly noteworthy as it is the first since provisions of Article 370 were removed. The erstwhile state was divided into two Union Territories in August 2019, making this a landmark event in Jammu and Kashmir's political landscape.

The BJP faces stiff competition from Congress, which has formed an alliance with NC to strengthen its position in the region. This coalition poses a significant challenge to BJP's dominance in Jammu.

The last assembly elections held in Jammu and Kashmir were conducted over five phases in 2014. In contrast, this year's election process is notably shorter but equally significant due to the changed political dynamics post-Article 370 abrogation.

The BJP's strategy includes addressing key issues that resonate with voters while countering the influence of Congress-NC alliance effectively. Amit Shah's visit is seen as a pivotal moment for rallying support ahead of these crucial elections.

As preparations continue for Shah's visit and the upcoming elections, all eyes are on how these developments will shape the future political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.