National Conference Leader Omar Abdullah Criticizes BJP Manifesto, Expresses Hope for Article 370 Restoration

National Conference leader and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has derided the BJP’s election manifesto, labeling it as aimed at the “destruction” of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah expressed disappointment over the lack of provisions in the BJP’s “Sankalp Patra” for Jammu and Kashmir, claiming that the party’s manifestoes have historically brought destruction to the region.

Abdullah, as reported by the sources, asserted that the INDIA bloc, comprising the National Conference and Congress, would secure victories in all five Lok Sabha constituencies of Jammu and Kashmir, along with one in Ladakh. He detailed the seat-sharing arrangement between the INDIA partners, with the Congress contesting in Jammu, Udhampur, and Ladakh, while the National Conference vies for the Islamabad-Rajouri, Srinagar, and Baramulla Lok Sabha seats.

Despite the challenges, Abdullah maintained hope for the restoration of Article 370, emphasizing solidarity among like-minded parties such as the DMK and TMC on the issue. He drew parallels with the BJP’s persistence despite having only two Lok Sabha seats in the past, highlighting the determination to pursue their agenda.

Abdullah criticized the BJP’s election manifesto, which includes promises to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and bring lasting peace to the Northeast. He pointed out the BJP’s track record in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, where they won three out of six seats in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), while the National Conference secured the remaining three seats.

As polling in Jammu and Kashmir approaches, scheduled in the first five phases between April 19 and May 20, Abdullah’s remarks underscore the political dynamics and aspirations within the region. The contest between the BJP and the INDIA bloc reflects broader debates over governance, identity, and the future of Jammu and Kashmir.

Abdullah’s criticism of the BJP’s manifesto and his expression of hope for Article 370 restoration encapsulate the divergent visions and aspirations shaping political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir. As the electoral process unfolds, the contestation between competing narratives will continue to shape the region’s trajectory and its relationship with the rest of India.