In the wake of a new political alliance, BJP leader Amit Shah has sharply criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his stance on reservation policy. This criticism emerged following the announcement of an alliance between Congress and the National Conference (NC) for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections.
On Thursday, the BJP leader took to X to express his concerns, sharing a photo of the NC's manifesto. The manifesto outlines the NC’s commitment to restoring Article 370 and Article 35A, as well as statehood to Jammu and Kashmir as it was before August 5, 2019. Shah's critique centers on the NC’s stance, which he argues is contradictory to the BJP’s efforts to enhance reservations for marginalized communities.
Shah emphasized that the Modi government had ended longstanding discrimination by providing reservations to Dalits, tribes, Pahadis, and backward communities after the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A.
He questioned Rahul Gandhi's position, asking whether he supports the NC’s proposal to abolish these reservations. Shah's remarks reflect a broader debate over the reservation policy and its implications for various communities in Jammu and Kashmir.
The NC’s manifesto, launched on August 19 by party Vice President Omar Abdullah, promises significant changes, including the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, redrawing of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, and measures for the return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits.
Prior to their abrogation, Article 370 provided Jammu and Kashmir with a degree of autonomy, while Article 35A allowed the state legislature to grant special privileges to its permanent residents.
The alliance between Congress and the NC was announced shortly after a meeting between Rahul Gandhi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and NC chief Farooq Abdullah.
Following this meeting, Abdullah confirmed that the alliance would contest all 90 seats in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. He expressed optimism about the alliance’s prospects, emphasizing the focus on restoring statehood and addressing the needs of the people.
The upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled for September 18, 25, and October 1, will be held in three phases, with results expected to be announced on October 4. This will be the first assembly election in the region since the abrogation of Article 370, marking a significant political event.
The Election Commission has already issued notifications for the first phase of the assembly elections, covering 24 seats. The alliance between Congress and NC is seen as a strategic move in this critical electoral landscape, with both parties aiming to consolidate their positions and address key issues facing the region.
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