Jammu & Kashmir — In a significant move ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has reiterated his party’s commitment to restoring statehood to the Union Territory. Gandhi’s statements, delivered during the launch of his party’s election campaign in Anantnag, underscore the INDIA bloc’s resolve to address what he termed as a crucial issue for the region.
During the rally in Sangaldan, a locality within the Banihal Assembly constituency of Ramban district, Gandhi accused the BJP of obstructing the restoration of statehood, which he said should have been achieved before the elections. “Our intention was always to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir before the assembly elections,” Gandhi declared. “However, the BJP’s refusal to prioritize this issue delayed the process. Regardless of their stance, we, as part of the INDIA alliance, will exert pressure on the central government to ensure that statehood is restored.”
Gandhi’s campaign strategy highlights the restoration of statehood as a central theme, aiming to galvanize voters and differentiate his party from the BJP. The elections, scheduled to commence on September 18, will unfold in a phased manner, with Banihal and 25 other constituencies participating in the first phase.
In the Banihal constituency, former Pradesh Congress Committee president Vikar Rasool Wani is seeking re-election. Wani, who has previously served as a minister, faces formidable competition from National Conference candidate Sajad Shaheen and BJP’s Saleem Bhat. Wani’s bid for a third consecutive term underscores the high stakes of this election.
Gandhi’s remarks and the INDIA bloc’s focus on the statehood issue are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the electoral discourse. The Congress aims to leverage this issue to mobilize support and challenge the BJP’s policies, setting the stage for a contentious and high-profile electoral battle in Jammu and Kashmir.
