Ram Madhav, BJP's in-charge for Jammu & Kashmir elections, dismissed rumors of forming an alliance with National Conference (NC) or any other party. In an exclusive interview with India Today TV, Madhav expressed confidence in BJP's ability to approach a majority in the forthcoming elections, stating, "We are not negotiating with anyone."
Post the 2014 Jammu & Kashmir assembly elections, BJP, NC, and People's Democratic Party (PDP) engaged in coalition talks. However, by 2015, it was only BJP and PDP who allied, only to part ways in 2018 due to disagreements over governance and policy matters.
Addressing coalition speculations, BJP leader Madhav remarked, "2014 experienced an unusual scenario, wherein only alliances with either BJP-NC or BJP-PDP could form a government. Dialogue occurred with both NC and PDP at that time, ultimately leading to the BJP-PDP governance. Currently, such an arrangement is not in play. We are confident about nearing the majority mark and will evaluate who possesses the seats to join hands with us to form the government."
Ram Madhav reiterated his party’s commitment to restore statehood to the region, emphasizing a strong promise made by both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to fulfill this pledge. When asked about a specific timeline, Madhav highlighted Parliament as the ultimate body capable of providing a concrete answer, noting this commitment was declared on August 6, 2019, in Parliament.
Referring to PM Modi's recent speech in Srinagar, where he reassured people of the restoration of statehood, Madhav stated, "There is complete dedication to that promise. The Prime Minister has assured it will be accomplished at the earliest."
When questioned about potential discontent in Jammu following the abrogation of Article 370, particularly concerning land rights and employment, Madhav dismissed opposition's claims. He criticized the Congress, accusing its leaders of viewing elections as a tourism opportunity rather than engaging with voters.
Madhav jibed, "Congress leaders are addressing rallies from their mobile phones, unwilling even to travel half an hour by road."
He compared this to the extensive road journeys undertaken by Home Minister Amit Shah to rally people. Madhav's comments surfaced against the backdrop of Congress's campaigns in Jammu, which he described as lackluster and inconsiderate, asserting, "That's how the people of Jammu felt. Congress was lazy."
