Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has sharply criticized the National Conference (NC) following statements made by NC leader Omar Abdullah, which suggested that the Gujjar-Bakarwal community in Jammu sells its votes for Rs 500 and lacks loyalty. This controversy has emerged amidst the backdrop of the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir, where the Gujjar-Bakarwal community represents a significant voting bloc.
Omar Abdullah’s remarks were made in the context of the NC’s campaign strategy and the ongoing political dynamics in the region. The Gujjar-Bakarwal community, traditionally seen as a stronghold for the NC, has been increasingly targeted by various political parties, including the BJP, especially following the recent granting of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Pahari community. This has raised concerns among Gujjars and Bakarwals about losing their political influence and representation.
BJP’s Response
The BJP has condemned Abdullah’s comments as an attack on the integrity of the Gujjar-Bakarwal community. BJP leaders argue that such statements not only undermine the community’s dignity but also reflect a desperate attempt by the NC to maintain its political relevance. They assert that the Gujjar-Bakarwals are a proud community with a long history of loyalty and political engagement, and the insinuation that they could be swayed by monetary inducements is both offensive and misleading.
A senior BJP official emphasized that the Gujjar-Bakarwals have historically been aligned with the NC, but recent political maneuvers by the BJP, including the push for reservations for the Pahari community, have altered the political landscape. The BJP believes that these changes could lead to a shift in allegiances, which may explain the NC’s defensive posture.
The upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir are critical, particularly for the NC, which has relied heavily on the Gujjar-Bakarwal vote. With the seasonal migration of these communities coinciding with the election schedule, there are concerns that many may be unable to vote, further complicating the NC’s campaign efforts. The BJP, on the other hand, is positioning itself to capitalize on any potential disenfranchisement of the Gujjar-Bakarwal voters by presenting itself as a viable alternative.
Political analysts suggest that the BJP’s strategy may be aimed at fracturing the traditional voting patterns in the region, particularly by appealing to the newly recognized Pahari community while simultaneously attempting to discredit the NC’s claims of loyalty from the Gujjar-Bakarwals.