Union Home Minister Amit Shah has commenced a significant two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, where he is set to launch the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s election campaign and unveil the party’s manifesto for the upcoming assembly elections. His arrival comes at a critical juncture for the BJP, which is grappling with internal dissent and challenges from rival parties as the election date approaches.
Shah’s visit is particularly important as the BJP faces growing unrest among its ranks over ticket distributions, leading to protests and some leaders resigning from the party. This discontent has prompted the BJP to initiate a damage control strategy, deploying senior leaders to address grievances and stabilize the party’s base ahead of the elections. Shah was welcomed at the Jammu airport by prominent BJP figures, including Union ministers G Kishan Reddy and Jitendra Singh, and the party’s national general secretary Tarun Chugh.
Key Events During the Visit
During his visit, Shah is scheduled to hold meetings with BJP leaders to strategize for the elections. He will officially launch the party’s campaign from Jammu, addressing a rally on Saturday. The manifesto, referred to as the “Sankalp Patra,” will be released at 4 PM today at a local hotel, outlining the BJP’s commitments and plans for the region.
The Jammu district is of particular significance to the BJP, which won nine out of eleven assembly constituencies in the area during the 2014 elections, contributing to its overall tally of 25 seats in the previous assembly. With the elections set to be conducted in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, the BJP is keen to reassure voters of its dedication to their welfare and development.
In light of the heightened political activity, security has been significantly increased in and around Jammu. Officials have implemented multi-tier security arrangements at key venues, particularly in the Channi and Greater Kailash areas, to ensure the safety of attendees at Shah’s rally.
In the manifesto, Shah emphasized the BJP’s commitment to integrating Jammu and Kashmir with India, asserting that Article 370 is now a part of history and will not be reinstated. He highlighted the government’s efforts to provide reservations for various communities that had been historically marginalized, including OBCs, Gurjars, Bakarwals, and Pahadis.
Shah’s visit and the subsequent manifesto launch are seen as pivotal moments for the BJP as it seeks to consolidate its position in Jammu and Kashmir amidst a backdrop of internal strife and external competition.
