BJP shunning Kashmir Valley poll arena due to ‘people’s anger’: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, April 19

National Conference vice-president Omar Abdullah on Friday said the BJP decision not to field any candidate from Kashmir in the upcoming elections was a clear indication of its failure to win the hearts of the Kashmiri people.

“In 2019, the BJP contested every seat. This time, the Union Home Minister has stated their priority was to first win the people’s hearts before fielding candidates from Kashmir. This indicates a recognition that they have not succeeded in winning hearts.”

“It shows after 2019 (abrogation of Article 370) people are more angry,” Omar said.

“Our effort will be to bring more voters to our side,” said the NC leader.

He said the significance of these elections could not be overstated, particularly since this was the first time since August 2019 that elections were being held in J&K.

Omar said had the BJP left the ground, it would have meant something, but it was not the case. He said the party was controlling things from “behind the scenes”.

On BJP J&K general secretary Tarun Chugh’s repeated visits and meetings in Kashmir with leaders of other parties, Omar said, “Chugh is frequently visiting Kashmir and meeting leaders here.”

“During his recent visit, he drove straight to the residence of a local leader… What was discussed there? Everyone knows their bonding with the BJP”. “Our doors are shut for Chugh. Neither he will visit us, nor will we give him entry. This is the difference between Altaf Bukhari and the NC,” Omar said.